A former Sidmouth Citizen of the Year, the inspiration behind “world famous” Sidmouth in Bloom campaigns of four decades, has received the British Empire Medal in the 2012 Queen’s Birthday Honours.
Joy Seward, 78, said the honour was a “great surprise” and a “thrill”.
The accolade, reinstated this year for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, was given to Mrs Seward for her 40 years’ work putting Sidmouth on the map around the world on behalf of the Sidmouth in Bloom campaign.
“I’ve loved every minute of it”, said the former chairman, pointing to meetings in Russia with fellow horticulturalists and “wonderful friendships” formed as particular highlights.
“I don’t do it to get rewards- I did it because I’m passionate about it and I love Sidmouth,” she added.
Joy will receive her honour at a Buckingham Palace garden party on a date to be announced.
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