A FORMER Horwich schoolgirl has been awarded an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Inspector Louise Hubble has been recognised for policing services provided to the rural communities of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Miss Hubble, aged 43, attended Horwich Parish Church of England Primary School and Rivington and Blackrod High School, before going to the University of Southampton.

Her mother Janet Hubble, from Horwich, said: "We are all buzzing about it. She has worked really, really hard.

"I couldn't believe it, I've never known anyone who has got an OBE, I am very proud of her.

"She is currently on holiday and is going out to celebrate and I will have a glass of wine to celebrate as well."

Miss Hubble, who has 20 years policing service, lobbied for a dedicated rural crime team to be set up and was instrumental in establishing Country Watch in Hampshire in 2010 and was later rolled out across the country.

She was appointed Strategic Rural Policing Inspector in 2013 and has assisted other emergency and criminal justice organisations in developing and improving their response to rural issues.

Commenting on her nomination, she said: "I am extremely proud of my achievements and am honoured to be in receipt of such a prestigious award."