MBE honour for Wolverhampton theatre group founder Jane Ward
The founder of an award-winning – but under-threat – theatre group 30 years ago has received an MBE from the Queen.
Jane Ward, who runs the Central Youth Theatre which is based at the Newhampton Arts Centre in Wolverhampton, described the day as 'incredible' and 'emotional'
Jane, from Bradmore, met Her Majesty at Buckingham Palace yesterday to receive an MBE for 30 years of service to drama in Wolverhampton.
It comes at a difficult time for the group as its existence is under threat as a result of cuts by Wolverhampton City Council.
She said: "I was nervous as I wasn't sure the Queen would actually be presenting the awards. It is a great honour for me and the Theatre. She asked me about the work we do helping young people in the city. It was an emotional day. Every year is a constant battle to raise the funds to keep us moving forward.
"We are reliant on an annual grant of £13,500 from the council. The money may not be there for us come April, which means the future of the CYT is in the balance."
Jane said she received her award alongside author Jackie Collins and former BBC news reader Kay Alexander.
After the presentation Jane retired to the BAFTA 195 restaurant in Piccadilly, before moving on to a pub in Drury Lane to celebrate with 30 former members of the group.
