The former Worldwide President of the Mothers’ Union, Lynne Tembey, is to be awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE). The award is part of Britain’s system of honours and is presented by the Queen or a senior member of the royal family acting in her place. The announcement of the award was one of a number made as part of the annual New Year’s Honours list published by the UK government. Last year, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, honoured Lynne Tembey with the Cross of St Augustine, ahead of her retirement at the end of 2018.

The award of the OBE has been made in recognition of her “services to Mothers’ Union, women and families”, the official awards list said.

“When I learned that I was to be awarded with the OBE, I was filled with amazement”, Lynne Tembey said. “I feel truly privileged. I have greatly loved my time as Worldwide President. Our members are incredible in all they strive to achieve, changing hearts, minds and lives in wonderful ways.

“To receive the OBE from Her Majesty and the Cross of St Augustine from the Archbishop of Canterbury is so humbling. I accept these awards through God’s grace and in recognition of the worldwide members it has been an honour and joy to serve.”

Lynne Tembey has been involved with Mothers’ Union for almost 40 years. She has served in leadership roles locally as branch leader and deanery leader and regionally as Vice President of the Diocese of Carlisle and Provincial President of York. For the past six years she has served as Worldwide President. She will receive the award at an investiture ceremony later this year.

She has been succeeded as Worldwide President by Mrs Sheran Harper, from Guyana – the first Worldwide President from outside the British Isles. Next month, Mrs Harper will be commissioned in her new role by the Archbishop of Canterbury during a special service in Southwark Cathedral, London. Founded 142 years ago, the Mothers’ Union is a dynamic Anglican Mission agency with four million members in 84 countries.