A BROMSGROVE man dedicated to supporting the arts in the town has collected his MBE which he was awarded in the New Year's Honours List.

Jim Page, who received the honour for services to Local and National Voluntary Arts Organisations, collected his award from the Queen at Buckingham Palace earlier this month.

He was accompanied by his wife, Frances, and his twin sons, Oliver, who now lives in Italy, and Stephen.

Chairman of the Housman Society for 14 years, Mr Page also started up Bromsgrove Concerts, and has been involved with Making Music (formerly the National Federation of Music Societies).

The 69-year-old also works with the Finzi Friends, which promotes the work of composer Gerald Finzi.

Mr Page, from New Road, told the Advertiser/Messenger: "Driving through the gates of Buckingham Palace was very special.

"It was an absolutely extraordinary day and the most wonderful occasion.

"The Queen was very friendly and she remembers her visit to Bromsgrove a couple of months ago - she said she enjoyed it."