'Receiving emblem for Fleur was unforgettable'

Fleur Lombard was just 21 when she was killed in the line of duty

A family who received one of the first Elizabeth Emblems said the experience was "emotional, amazing and unforgettable".

The award recognises public servants, such as police and firefighters, who died in the line of duty.

Fleur Lombard was just 21 when she died battling a blaze at a supermarket in Bristol in 1996.

Her sister Rebecca Lombard-Earl, from Darlington, told BBC Radio Tees the ceremony at Windsor Castle was "really emotional", with a few tears shed from all the families gathered.

Ms Lombard, who worked for Avon Fire and Rescue, was the first woman firefighter to die on duty in peacetime Britain.

Ms Lombard-Earl attended the award ceremony with her 17-year-old son Rowan.

"He's always been keen to know about my sister, his auntie, who he never got to meet," she said.

Fleur's sister Rebecca Lombard-Earl said the ceremony was "emotional"

She said the ceremony was not as formal as she was expecting.

Ms Lombard-Earl described how King Charles spoke to each of the more than 30 families gathered.

She said he apologised for how long it took to get the award in place, expressed his condolences, and sent his regards and a "happy Christmas" to her parents.

"It was just a really beautiful moment, and something so special," Ms Lombard-Earl said.

The King presented the inaugural awards at Windsor Castle

Ms Lombard-Earl said she thought her sister would think the ceremony was a "fuss".

"She was very humble," she said.

But, she added, Fleur would be "thrilled about what it means for her immediate family, what it means for her colleagues in the fire service, and what it means for every family that is now able to receive this award".

Ms Lombard-Earl said the award would be put in a cabinet on display.

"We're allowed to wear it every day if we wish, but I think I'll be worried about losing it," she said.