Former press photographer Peter Washbourn has received his MBE from the Queen.

He worked as a Lincolnshire Echo photographer for 40 years and received the honour insignia - a silver cross medal with a rose pink and pearl grey ribbon.

He is known throughout the county as an author, historian and lifetime advocate of Lincolnshire as well as for his outstanding contribution to a long list of community organisations including the Lincoln Beevor Band.

The 67-year-old is now a columnist for the Echo and was nominated for the medal in the New Year Honours List for his services to the community.

He said: "I had photographed the Queen on three occasions when she had visited the county so I was quite looking forward to seeing her again.

"She'd certainly done her homework as when I went up and shook hands with her and received my medal she talked to me about my interests in history, photography and archaeology.

"It was a wonderful moment and one which I will always treasure."

After the presentation Peter and the rest of the recipients were led out into the palace quadrangle to have their pictures taken.

His wife Pat said: "We were informed that Peter was to be made an MBE in the New Year's Honours list and although we had been told the itinerary we still didn't know what to really expect.

"It was all over so quickly. The build-up was like a wedding and then within an hour or so it was all over."

His daughter Sarah added: "The whole experience was totally amazing.

"When we drove through the gates there were crowds of tourists staring at us and taking pictures.

"It was really amusing. They must have thought we were famous.

"I'm really proud of my dad and so pleased that his contributions to Lincolnshire have been recognised."

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