A RETIRED physiotherapist who formerly worked in the Tavistock area has received an ancient Royal honour for her services for many years as a member of the Church of England’s General Synod.

In a special ceremony at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, Anneliese Barrell was presented with Maundy Money from the Queen; she was one of two women from the Diocese of Exeter to have been granted the honour, along with Shirley-Ann Williams from Ottery St Mary.

Both women received their coins in the chapel before going to the state apartments of Windsor Castle for a reception hosted by the Castle Governor and Constable.

There are as many elderly men and women to receive Royal Maundy money as there are years in the sovereign’s age, They are chosen for their Christian service. The ceremony dates back to the 13th century when members of the Royal family would distribute money and gifts on Maundy Thursday, and has its origin in the commandment ‘that ye love one another’ that Christ gave after washing the feet of his disciples on the day before Good Friday.

Anneliese was a physiotherapist based with the Tavistock Community Learning Disabilities team in the 1990s and worked both in the community and at The Molly Owen Centre; she was also a Guides’ Commissioner for many years in Yelverton and reported to the Tavistock deanery on General Synod affairs.

She said she enjoyed every minute of a ‘very special day’ and at the ceremony she was accompanied by her daughter, Hilary Hoskin, a former Tavistock schoolgirl.

Anneliese told the Times: ‘All those taking part found the whole day awe inspiring, the pomp and ceremony, the music and the care shown to the recipients was wonderful. The Queen was very gracious. The reception in the state apartments of Windsor Castle hosted by the Governor and Constable of the Castle gave everyone an opportunity to meet and talk to those who had been involved in the whole day’s organisation, other recipients and the residents of the castle community, to explore the state apartments and also to enjoy excellent hospitality. The whole day was a  once in a life time unforgettable experience.’

As a member of the Church Synod, the Church of England’s ‘parliament’, Anneliese has been part of many important decisions on the future of the church, including the ordination of women. Representing the Diocese of Exeter she has been on the synod’s committees for penal affairs, mental health and childrent.  She has also been a member of Exeter Diocesan board of education as portfolio holder for children,

Anneliese added: ‘For me my 15 years on General Synod was an amazing experience, I learned so much about our church and the churches overseas from some incredible people and have in some small way contributed to decisions made, not always easy but there always seemed to be a way forward even in the Synod’s darkest hours.

‘One highlight, amongst many, was my time as a member of The Crown Nominations Commission which met in Lambeth Palace to appoint our present Bishop of Exeter, a time of prayerful reflection, hard talking and real understanding of why we are here.’