THE PRESTIGIOUS Belmondo Medal was awarded to secretary of High Wycombe's French Circle Claire Atkinson for her commitment and work over the past 12 years.

Mrs Atkinson, originally from Versailles, but who now lives in Marlow, was presented with one of five medals awarded by The Alliance Francaise, a London-based organisation promoting French language and culture, last month.

Fellow medal holder and circle treasurer Bob Flint presented the medal, which was coined by 'The Paris Mint', to the French teacher as members of the circle looked on proudly.

Anne Woodward, a club member since it opened in 1976, said Mrs Atkinson was truly deserving of the honour.

She said: "She is a great friend and we are so proud that she was one of only five chosen from across the country. She has brought so much of her enthusiasm and passion for the language to the circle.

"It is so difficult to actively speak French in this country without it seeming superficial. As a native speaker she has contributed so much."

More than 30 circle members meet to speak and listen to French speakers at Bassetsbury Manor once a month.