MRS Denise May, the Director of Sport at Budehaven Community School, took her family with her when she was invited to Buckingham Palace to receive her MBE, awarded in the New Year's Honours.

The Investiture took place on the morning of St George's Day, and the family had to be at the Palace by 10 o'clock.

"We were told very firmly that if we were not there within the twenty minute

window allowed, then — no investiture!" said Denise. The family was amazed, as they went through the Palace, to think that so superb a place was actually lived in as a home by the Queen.

Denise received her MBE from Prince Charles, who chatted with her about her teaching career and all that she had done for sport in North Cornwall.

Following the investiture, which was, as Denise remarked "almost unbelievable, to think this was happening to me" the family went on to a special meal to

celebrate.

"We had decided as a family that this was a once in a lifetime experience," said Denise, "so we intended to enjoy it to the full, taking in a show, London by night from the Eye, some very good meals and a really great day out on the Saturday."

And, she added "to crown it all, Sunday was the running of the London Marathon, so we were there for that as well — a fantastic conclusion to an

unforgettable experience."