An Andover woman has said she is honoured to have been recognised with an MBE for her work supporting the armed forces.

Charlotte Eadie has been made an MBE for her work with the armed forces magazine Army & You, which she was the editor of. She said that it was “lovely” to be recognised for focusing on military matters.

“I’ve really enjoyed shining a spotlight on Army Family’s lives,” she told the Advertiser, “and sharing information, news and stories which can make a difference to their lives.

“Military life can be daunting to families but it’s great to know that a magazine like Army & You can alleviate some of those concerns and empower people to seek help.”

When Charlotte was first informed about her honour, she said that it was so unexpected she didn’t believe it was true.

“It was such an honour, and a huge surprise,” she said. “I wasn’t expecting it at all, and when I first received the email I thought it was junk mail!

“I was very shocked to discover it was from the Cabinet office and very thrilled with this.”

Though she has now moved on from Army & You, now working with the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) as their Community Development Manager, she hopes to continue her work improving the lives of military families.

“I definitely want to continue that good work and ensure the serving community can access support in times of need wherever they are based,” she said.

At present, she’s not sure when she will receive her award, but is looking forward to it.

“With Covid there’s a bit of a backlog, so I haven’t heard any more, but I’m very much looking forward to going to Buckingham Palace one day and having that thrill and excitement. It’s something I will treasure, certainly.”

The MBE, or Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, is awarded by the monarch on behalf of the government to recognise those who have had an outstanding achievement or given service to the community which has had a long-term, significant impact.