A BROMSGROVE charity, councillor and museum curator have received awards for their achievements, after they were honoured in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours.

Former Bromsgrove District Council leader Dennis Norton was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to community heritage, after he reopened the Norton Museum with his lifetime's collection of historic artefacts in the town centre last year.

He said: "I'm very pleased to receive the BEM. It was totally unexpected when I had the letter. I'm proud to share this with all the people that have helped and supported us at the museum - the award's not just for me, it's for them too."

Dennis was joined by dozens of museum volunteers, trustees and supporters at a ceremony at Worcester Guildhall on Thursday (October 12).

Volunteers from Bromsgrove-based homeless charity Socks and Chocs were also presented with an award, recognising its work within the local community.

The charity donates food and essential clothing to homeless people across the Midlands, and also funds B&B accommodation and rent for homeless centres.

Founder Ian Northcott was joined by two Bromsgrove School students Alexandra Shakes and Millie Goulden-Page, who worked with the charity during the summer holidays.

The group received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service at last week's event.

Ian said: "We are honoured to receive this award and I am pleased that the team has been recognised as no one associated with Socks and Chocs takes a salary or even claims expenses. Everything given is used as it should be."

Belbroughton parish councillor Janice Boswell, who represented Clent and Belbroughton on the district council for 15 years, previously told of her delight at being chosen for an MBE.

The award recognised a lifetime of volunteering and services to Bromsgrove, achieved in her roles as council chairman, vice-chairman and civic head, where she raised thousands of pounds for local charities.

Janice will collect her award later this month.