A CHARITABLE community leader from Worcester has been recognised at the House of Lords following years of dedication to support her community through music.

Rosemary Hutton has been commended for her outstanding commitment to organising charitable fundraising events for a variety of causes and has received one of the country’s highest accolades – a British Citizen Award (BCA).

The gifted singer and community champion was presented with her BCA by Dame Mary Perkins, co-founder of Specsavers and patron of the awards, at the Palace of Westminster in July, after devoting more than two decades to the benefit of others.

The 52-year-old has dedicated her life to entertainment industry since she started singing at the age of 14. In 1991, she began her solo career, soon after combining her musical talents and passion for helping others less fortunate than herself.

She has devoted her time, energy and expertise to a wide range of charitable fundraising events in aid of local and national charities.

County Air Ambulance, Acorns Children’s Hospice, Kemp Hospice and Diabetes UK are some of the charities to have benefitted from Rose’s efforts.

She said: “I was absolutely shocked when I learned I had been awarded a BCA.

“I never expected to receive this type of recognition for doing something that brings me so much joy.

“It is truly an honour and a blessing, especially being nominated by someone who has been by my side throughout this journey.”

Along with the charity work, she also runs her own entertainment agency and has been caring for her husband of 25 years who has a chronic illness.

Mike Faulkner, founder of the BCA, added: “Rose has been an inspiration to so many people and because of her generosity so many people’s lives have been changed for the better.”