A WOMAN from Chafford Hundred has been given an OBE in the New Year’s honours list.

Sandra Manning, a business Unit head working for Local Compliance within HM Revenue and Customs was awarded the honour for her services to Tax Compliance and voluntary service to the community.

Tunde Ojetola, South Chafford councillor, said: “I want to extend my congratulations to Sandra for her work. It is wonderful news that a Chafford resident has received such a prestigious award.”

Mrs Manning chose not to speak to the press.

Other recipients of honours in south Essex were Danny Lawrence, deputy mayor of Basildon, who was awarded a British Empire Medal for services to radio, Rochford’s Myra Weir was awarded the same privilege for her work at the town’s day centre, as was Irene Haylock, of Benfleet, for her work with those who have hearing difficulties.

MBEs were awarded to:

Carol Crompton, head of Southend Council’s youth offending service for services to children and families

Lucy Hodges, a blind medal-winning sailor from Rochford

Geoff Williams, Basildon Lib Dem councillor, for his services to local government

Southend councillor David Norman for his services to adult education

Southend paramedic Ian Burrell, who designed a card to help emergency services treat motorcyclists after accidents.

Volunteer Avril Spriggs was also recognised for services to gymnastics, founding the South Essex Gymnastics Club, a former base for double 2012 bronze medal winner Max Whitlock.