A WOMAN who arrived in Beaminster at the age of 11 and has been immersing herself in the life of the town ever since has been made an Honorary Townsperson.

At 78 and married to her childhood sweetheart Tony it is her work in almost every town organisation that has been recognised.

She was nominated by Mr Peter Brook and seconded by Maggie Warnett.

Mrs Margaret Greenham said: “I am very honoured to be on the board in the town hall. It is there for life, it’s absolutely fantastic. I get a lot of satisfaction helping out in the community.”

She started the twinning group with St James in France with the late David Jones which is still going from strength to strength.

In 2003 she was made an honorary citizen of St James. She has also been involved with the town’s band since she married Tony 55 years ago.

She said: “I didn’t play an instrument when we got married. Tony said you either learn to play an instrument or stay home and shut up. I learnt to play an instrument.”

The couple have also been involved in organising concerts with the internationally acclaimed Faerie Band for the past 35 years and this year they were made life vice-presidents.

She added: “I enjoy all the things I do. I am also on the committee of the old Beaminster Grammar School Old Boys and Old Girls Association and help organise the reunions we have. I came here as a 11-year-old as a border to the grammar school.

“I met Tony because the town boys were always after the grammar school girls. They thought it was a feather in their cap.

“We were only about 13 when we met.”

They married in March 28, 1959. They have four children, 14 grandchildren an one great grandson.

The couple are celebrating Margaret’s birthday this week – and her new honorary status – with a holiday in the Caribbean, including two days watching cricket in Antigua.

Mrs Greenham was a founder member of Beaminster Hockey Club, past committee member and chairman of Beaminster Playgroup, governor of Beaminster School for 10 years, an organiser of Beaminster’s 1984 Charter celebrations, member of the D-Day anniversary celebrations committee, St Mary’s PCC and churchwarden for 10 years, past committee member, chairman and president of Women’s section RBL, Poppy appeal collector and fundraiser, fundraiser for St Mary’ Church, founder member of Beaminster and District Twinning Association, past treasurer, chairman, and president, committee member of the Old Boys and Old Girls Association and a member of Beaminster WI.