Charity founder made MBE in ceremony with King

Jo and Andy Priaulx are standing together holding a case with the MBE medal with is a red ribbon bow. She is wearing an elaborate black hat which has a feather effect and a black lace dress which has a white collar and cuffs. He is wearing a navy suit with white shirt and navy tie which has a shield on it. Behind them is wooden panelling. Image source, Jo Priaulx
Image caption,

Jo Priaulx was awarded her MBE by King Charles at Windsor Castle

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A charity founder has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to neonatal care.

Jo Priaulx was given her medal by King Charles III at a reception at Windsor Castle on Tuesday in recognition of her work with the Priaulx Premature Baby Foundation, which supports families in the Channel Islands.

Mrs Priaulx, from Guernsey, said the King had "very kind words" for her and told her "you're a very clever girl, which is why you're here today".

It was the same day Sir David Beckham was knighted, which added to what Mrs Priaulx described as "an amazing experience that felt really surreal".

Mrs Priaulx co-founded the charity in 2003 after her daughter was born five weeks early and after her son was born premature weighing just 3lb 14oz (1.75kg).

World Prematurity Day and the foundation's 22nd anniversary take place on 17 November.

The charity invited islanders to wear purple to help raise awareness of neonatal care.

Mrs Priaulx said: "It it wasn't for the community, trustees and staff, I wouldn't have been at Windsor Castle, so it's hats off to everyone."

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