Carol Hartley receives her British Empire Medal

Photo: Howard Wilkinson Photography

2012 Woman of Rochdale, Carol Hartley

Heywood resident Carol Hartley has been presented with her British Empire Medal in recognition of her services to charity and the community.

Carol, who dedicates her life to helping needy children, was honoured for ‘charitable services to youngsters in eastern Europe and services to the community’.

The 2012 Woman of Rochdale was invited to Manchester Town Hall to receive her medal, which was presented to her by the Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Warren Smith JP.

Carol coordinates The Shoebox Appeal in Heywood which sends comfort parcels to children in Belarus and other poor countries.

She has also set up the Belarus Fund and the Borivos Abandoned Babies Home with friends Janet and Alan Bridgewater which helps orphans in the country.

Speaking to Rochdale Online before receiving her medal, Carol said: “I am delighted but it isn’t just for me. It is for the hundreds of people who help me do what I do. I work with so many people that I wouldn’t know where to start.

“You can only do good and I have some really good friends who have helped me along the way.”

Carol’s award was announced as part of the Queen’s New Year honours list.