After years of keeping her community smiling, and joking that her "medal is in the post", one woman has finally landed herself some priceless – and regal – recognition.

Popular Seascale parish councillor and trader Elizabeth Mawson has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Queen's Birthday Honours List, for her services to the community during Covid.

Throughout the pandemic, the Mawson's Ice Cream Parlour owner have delivered essentials and supplies to residents, as well as checking in on those in more isolated areas and those who are vulnerable.

Elizabeth has also used her suppliers to ensure villagers have access to the basics if they couldn't visit the supermarket, couldn’t get online delivery slots or if local shops ran out.

But her kindness didn't end there, as, on top of also delivering prescriptions to all those who couldn't get to the pharmacy, her ice cream van – located on the beach – has provided people with endless cones of the homemade treat, spreading smiles across the town despite the trying time of the pandemic.

And while she often joked with others that her "medal was in the post" when carrying out her good deeds, the 38-year-old has been "floored" by her BEM – and still doesn't believe it's real.

"I'm absolutely chuffed, but it's also so embarrassing!" Elizabeth said, with a laugh.

"We're really lucky round here, with such a lovely community and so many amazing people, so to be singled out is so humbling, but I'm also so embarrassed."

Commenting on why she decided to do such fantastic things, Elizabeth said: "I'm a pretty proactive member of the community, and I love being someone that people can come to for help.

"I don't care how many people need something, or what it is they need help with, I just always want to be the one they go to. The only time I get stressed is when I can't do anything for them – it's just who I am."

She continued: "I know I do a lot for the community, but to be given a BEM – especially when I'm only 38 – is just mad, and completely overwhelming, but I'm so grateful and humbled by it."