The only female chairman of a leading British company has been named a dame for her services to business.

Alison Carnwath, who has lived in East Devon for more than 25 years, is ‘delighted’ to be on the New Year’s Honours list and looking forward to collecting the accolade.

Her CV boasts stints at KPMG, Credit Suisse and Lloyds Bank, but she is proudest of her current chairmanships of Land Securities and Isis Private Equity.

“I am seen as a role model for women since I am the only female who is the chairman of a FTSE 100 company,” she said.

“I cannot say I have a motto. Work hard and play hard and be decent to people would be how I have led my life.

“I am delighted to have been honoured.”

Alison, who admits she has a wicked sense of humour, resigned from the board of Barclays in 2012 as she found their attitude to pay ‘tiresome and out of touch’.

She met the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh during her jubilee celebrations, and is looking forward to seeing the Queen or Prince William.

Introduced to the area as a child, Alison has lived in Sidbury with partner Peter Thomson for nine years and enjoys walks along the cliffs.

“I spend a great deal of time in London and the USA on business but Sidbury is where I am and feel at home,” said the keen skier and food and wine lover.

Alison is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, a trustee of the British Library and has been listed in the 100 most influential directors in the UK by the Times.