A SHATTERFORD resident has been made a Dame in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours in recognition of her services to further education.

Lancashire-born Dr Christine Braddock, 58, who has lived in Wyre Forest for about seven years, after moving from Cleobury Mortimer, is principal and chief executive of Birmingham Metropolitan College - which co-runs the Academy at Kidderminster.

She has 30 years experience in senior leadership of further education colleges and before that, worked as a senior education advisor for the Home Office, managing education policy in 43 Midland prisons.

Mrs Braddock said: “There is an absolute pride and honour and shock that someone like me could be made a Dame in such a significant year. It is an honour that people in further education do not often get.

“The number of people I have seen change their lives is phenomenal and that is what has kept me in further education for 30 years.

“I am so pleased that some of the successes - such as Kidderminster Academy - are bringing new opportunities that would not otherwise be here.

“I do a lot of things, my day job and support people, organisations and charities all in the hope it will create opportunities for young people. Nothing I have done is on the basis of thinking I would be honoured in this way.

“This honour not only recognises my work in the sector by the ongoing excellent work of teaching staff and the achievements of thousands of learners - this is one of the proudest moments of my life.”

Mrs Braddock - who is married to husband Tony and has three children - was also chairman of the Engineering Training Board’s education and skills panel and is a council member at Aston University.

She is also due to become High Sheriff for the West Midlands in March - an honour which recognises her positive contribution to the community.