The founder of a charity which has been one of Ashby Co-op's chosen local causes been awarded an OBE in the New Year's Honours List.

Chief Executive of The Buddy Bag Foundation, Karen Williams, has been recognised by the Queen for her services to victims of domestic abuse.

Buddy Bag Foundation was created in response to the rising number of children entering emergency care after fleeing violent situations at home.

Its work provided a direct connection to this year's coronavirus lockdowns and still needs urgent public support.

The Buddy Bag Foundation was set up six years ago to produce 'Bags of Love' for children who are victims of abuse.

The work of the group, based in South Derbyshire, was also recognised by Ashby Co-op, which has supported its work as one of three selected local good causes this year.

To read more about Karen's extraordinary work and the Buddy Bag Foundation, click here: Buddy Bag Foundation says lockdown highlights the need for added support and here: Buddy Bag Foundation supported by Ashby Co-op.

The Foundation posted the news on its Facebook page.

The message reads: "We are incredibly excited and extremely proud to announce that CEO of the Buddy Bag Foundation, Karen Williams has been awarded with an OBE in the New Years Honours list 2021.

"A HUGE congratulations to Karen for this incredible achievement!"

Karen added: "I am both honoured and humbled to have received an OBE in the New Year's Honours list.

"My dream five years ago was to set up a charity that could and would make a real and meaningful different to children in emergency care.

"With the assistance and support of all our volunteers we have realised this dream.

"We have packed over 30,000 Buddy Bags, far exceeding our initial target and look to the future with optimism at the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

"Thank you to all our volunteers and supporters – together we have achieved and are continuing to achieve something truly special."