A SOLDIER who has raised thousands of pounds for charity has spoken of his surprise at being made an MBE.

Captain Sean Charles Keilty was born in Stanley, County Durham, but now lives in Warwickshire.

He has raised about £40,000 for the Gurkha Welfare Trust with long-distance runs and bike rides.

Capt Keilty said: "I was dumbstruck when I found out. I do not do it for recognition but I am well chuffed."

Entertainer Hugh Malone, 72, from Consett, County Durham, was also made an MBE. He has performed at charity gigs in and around Derwentside since he was 14.

He is a comic and singer and has delighted crowds with his pantomime dame act since the early 1980s.

Mr Malone was named in the Queen's birthday honours list.

He said: "It came as quite a surprise and I was not expecting this at all. I though it was a wind-up when I found out. It is very humbling.

"I would like to thank all of the people who have nominated me."