A FORMER headteacher, business owners, and community workers are among those honoured by the Queen today.

A handful of people from across East Lancashire have been recognised for the work they have done for their community or a charity.

Among those is Sazeda Patel, from Blackburn, who was awarded an MBE for helping to break down cultural barriers after forming a scout group and summer school camps in the town.

Businessman Kevin Horkin, who owns several opticians and country-wear stores across the North West has been awarded an MBE.

Mr Horkin helped found the Pet Role Trust, which is devoted to improving animal health and welfare through fundraising.

Mr Horkin, who lives in Clitheroe, is also a trustee of the Lord's House Farm, which provides support for disabled and disadvantaged adults.

Colin Mustoe, chairman of Senator International furniture shop in Altham, was awarded an MBE for his work with the successful youth club Blackburn Youth Zone.

Mrs Patel, 36, said she was completely shocked when she found out she had been given the honour.

She said: "At first I was worried it could have been a letter of redundancy or something horrible but I was so happy when I read it.

"I was sworn to secrecy to not tell anyone so it was so hard not to tell my friends.

"I'm so happy with the work I have completed. After expecting a child my mindset changed and I wanted to make sure that things would improve for my children for when they grow up."

Mr Horkin, who recently ran as a Conservative candidate for Hyndburn and Haslingden in the general election, said: "I was delighted to have been nominated and I wasn't expecting it.

"I have wanted to help the community and have volunteered with different groups since I was 16-years-old.

"I don't do the work for the recognition, but it is nice to be looked at."

Thomas Wells, the estate foreman for the Lancashire Survey, owned by the Duchy of Lancaster was awarded the bar to Royal Victorian Medal.

Ethna Cummins, who retired from Whitefield Infant School and Nursey in Nelson last year after 33 years as headteacher, was awarded an MBE for her services to the school.

Current headteacher Erica Mason, who nominated Mrs Cummins, said: "Ethna is an inspiration leader, with a passion, drive and determination for every single child to succeed, despite English often being their second or third language and them encountering many social obstacles on a daily basis.

"She had never perceived this situation as an excuse for standards in school, merely seen them as challenges to overcome.

"Ethna has raised standards in the school to an outstanding level, with children attaining beyond national expectations and higher than those in more advantaged areas within Lancashire."

Nan Goodall, a volunteer who supported Blackburn with Darwen Carers Service and other community groups, was given a British Empire Medal for her services to the community.

Former Blackburn Rugby Club flanker Dick Greenwood, 75, was also given an OBE for his services to sport.