At 97, Jill Gladwell is the oldest person to be recognised in this year's New Year Honours list.
Mrs Gladwell has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her work with the Royal British Legion, which goes back more than 80 years.
She began collecting for the annual Poppy Appeal as a 14-year-old schoolgirl during the Second World War in 1940.
In 2021, Mrs Gladwell was among 10 collectors, one for each decade, who visited Clarence House at the invitation of the then Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, now the King and Queen, for the launch of the RBL's centenary appeal.
She explained that she was inspired by her mother, who collected in the 1920s, and that now five generations of her family are involved, including her great-great-niece, Charlotte.
Jill Gladwell, third from left, was one of 10 collectors who visited Clarence House in 2021 for the launch of the RBL's centenary appeal. Each collector represents a different decade since the RBL's formation in 2021. Image: PA (Image: PA)
Mrs Gladwell, whose mother was one of the RBL's first collectors, has previously said: "I started collecting when I was 14 in 1940 and even then I knew the Poppy Appeal was important to the wounded men who had fought for the country and for peace.
"My father followed the legion's motto 'Service not self' and I'm so happy to be back out collecting to support the Armed Forces community and their families this year."
Mrs Gladwell was made an MBE in the New Year's Honours list for 2023.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “The New Year’s Honours List recognises the exceptional achievements of people across the country and those who have shown the highest commitment to selflessness and compassion.
“To all honourees, you are the pride of this country and an inspiration to us all.”
Lady Clare, Lord-Lieutenant of Suffolk said: “Heartfelt congratulations to all those who have been recognised in this year's New Year Honours List. All those of us who live in Suffolk are immensely proud of you and I would like to thank you on behalf of us all for everything you have done for communities and individuals across the county.”
If you would like to nominate someone for a National Honour, help and guidance is provided by the Suffolk Lieutenancy Office. Please contact: lieutenancyoffice@suffolk.gov.uk or visit: www.suffolk-lieutenancy.org.uk
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