A former Ystradgynlais town councillor, who died following a long battle with cancer, has been awarded a British Empire Medal in the Queen’s birthday honours.

Margaret Thomas passed away on, May 10, 2014, the same day a letter arrived from the Cabinet Office, informing the family of the award.

A well-known and respected councillor, teacher, volunteer, mother and grandmother, Mrs Thomas raised thousands of pounds for numerous charities over the years.

Her husband, Lyn collected a the award on behalf of his late wife from The Hon Mrs Shan Legge-Bourke, the Lord-Lieutenant for Powys.

“It was a shame that Margaret wasn’t able to collect her award in person," said Mr Thomas.

“Margaret did some amazing charity work in both Slough and Ystradgynlais area.

“I am thankful to the people who nominated Margaret for the award, it was very well deserved. She raised huge amounts for a wide range of charities."

Mrs Thomas also ran trips from Ystradgynlais to nearly every show at the Millennium Centre and held the title of Number Two Customer.

The Thomas family will visit the Wales Millennium Centre in the near future to unveil a seat in the auditorium in her honour.