Local hero crowned queen of Bexhill

The Crown Carveries competition, which was launched last month, encouraged residents to nominate local heroes whom they felt were worthy of the royal title.

Mary, 65, was named as the winner after a nomination by her family who voted for her because of her caring personality.

Mary comes from a family of 10, and at the tender young age of eleven she began caring for her brothers and sisters; since then she hasn't stopped.

Mary said: "My mum was ill and suffered from asthma. She had a number of miscarriages and, as I was the second eldest, as each baby arrived I helped care for them."

She added: "It was a job that had to be done and you didn't have a lot of choice back then, but I've got many happy memories."

Mary married, had three daughters and a son and now proudly boasts no less than eight grandchildren and, being the caring grandmum that she is, naturally helps care for them when needed.

She also continues to work part-time as a taxi controller for Town Taxis in Bexhill and asked how she manages to fit it all in she simply says: "It keeps me young!"

On winning her local hero title Mary said: "I was so shocked to hear that I'd been crowned the queen of Bexhill. It's a lovely surprise to be recognised within the local community and I can't wait to bring my family along to enjoy the complimentary meal. It's a real honour."

Mary has been awarded a meal for four at the Kings Arms Hotel and will now be judged against other local winners to find the 'king' or 'queen' of the South East region.

Hayley Thurmer, manager at the Kings Arms Hotel, said: "It was a tough decision, but Mary was exactly what we were looking for '“ as she always goes the extra mile to help others. Now we can turn the tables and roll out the red carpet to treat her for once."

Hayley added: "We'd like to thank everyone for their nominations and, even if your hero didn't win, you can still give them the royal treatment with our much loved princely banquet (a roast with all the trimmings) for just 3.50 Monday '“ Saturday and 6.50 on a Sunday."