AFTER years of devoted work for veterans in Weymouth and Portland a tireless fundraiser has been honoured.

Poppy Butcher has been was awarded the Freedom of the Borough.

The 87 year-old was nominated for the accolade in May and the council unanimously agreed that she would become the first honorary freeman in 14 years.

What makes it all the more special is that Mrs Butcher is the first woman in the history of Weymouth and Portland to receive the distinction.

The mayor of Weymouth and Portland, Richard Kosior, gave her a framed certificate and speeches were made commending Mrs Butcher for her decades of service at a special ceremony.

Cllr Kosior said: “There has never been a more deserving person.

“She’s done a lot for the borough and the veterans.

“The honour is a recognition of all the work that she has done over the years to make the veterans week successful – all the work she’s done in the borough generally.

“She was very proud and, of course, very modest.”

For more than 20 years, Mrs Butcher has organised the vehicle parade during Weymouth’s Veterans Day celebrations.

Among other charitable work, she has raised funds for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, worked as an active member of the Weymouth Moose Lodge and supported teas, dances and entertainment for the elderly of the borough.

The title of Honorary Freeman is bestowed on people of distinction who have, in the opinion of the authority, serviced the place or area greatly.

Mrs Butcher said: “I was overwhelmed and honoured.

“I thought: 'Why me?'

“It was a great honour and I can’t quite take it all in.

“My family were all there to support me and they were very proud.

“Everything that I have done, I have enjoyed.”

Rachel Barton, who works at Osprey Leisure Centre, grew up next door to Mrs Butcher and has since worked with her in her fundraising efforts.

She said: “Poppy certainly works tirelessly for the veterans with events throughout the borough.

“She has done an awful lot for us here.

“When you work with her, she’s approachable and supportive, and obviously happy to share her knowledge.”

Warrant officer class two, Denis Waterman, is one of the organisers behind the Armed Forces Day celebrations.

He said: “I am just amazed at how much energy and enthusiasm she shows.

“She is a pillar of the veterans’ community.”