LAUNCESTON'S Mary Butler was awarded her MBE by the Princess Royal at Buckingham Palace on Thursday, May 11. She described as "an honour and the experience of a lifetime" the opportunity to visit the palace, meet Princess Anne and receive her award, which was presented to her as acknowledgement of her sterling community work. A real 'people's person', Mary said she also took great joy in meeting the other award recipients, of whom there were over 90. Any nerves that may have been noticeable in the days before the presentation were alleviated on the day, she continued — something she attributed to the pride found in her Salvation Army membership.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.