DEVON'S finest were honoured by the Queen last week when they were presented with a British Empire Medal.

Among those awarded was Ian Acford Dingle, who received his award for services to the community in Plymouth and Tavistock.

Mr Dingle was among nine men and women from across the county, chosen for their tireless community work and dedication and named in the Queen's Birthday Honours List in June after the medal was re-introduced for the jubilee year.

He has been a member of the Lions Club in Plymouth for many years and has been treasurer for more than a decade.

He opens his garden for the benefit of others, paints and sells his artwork for charity, makes toys and gifts for raffle prizes, maintains the church and the grounds, leads prayer meetings for parishioners and even dresses up as Father Christmas in December.

He has also held the post of chair of the Dartmoor Sponsored Walk for more than 15 years, working with his wife to ensure the course is achievable, and raising much needed funds for local and international charities, disasters and good causes.

Mr Dingle was presented with his award at County Hall by Devon's Lord Lieutenant Eric Dancer, the Queen's representative in the county, at a special ceremonial event.