AN “INSPIRATIONAL” grandmother has been given an MBE for supporting her local children’s hospice for over a decade.

Loraine Midda, 63, started raising money for Haven House Children’s Hospice when she moved to Woodford Green 13 years ago.

Despite a busy career as head of digital services at the Houses of Parliament, Mrs Midda has always tried to find ways of raising money for the hospice “wherever she can”.

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She said: “Haven House is just the most magical place.

“Even though they have to deal with life-limiting illnesses, everybody there is so happy.

“They don’t just care for children, but the rest of the family as well.

“Being there makes me so grateful I can enjoy my time with my children and grandchildren, and I’m delighted to be able to help them.”

Mrs Midda has organised all sorts of fundraising events for the hospice over the years, and even abseiled down the Olympic Park’s ArcelorMittal Orbit last summer.

After training as a mindfulness coach she now puts on classes to help her Parliamentary colleagues de-stress, and encourages them to donate to the hospice too.

She found out she had been recognised on the Queen’s Birthday Honours list last month, but was only allowed to tell her family and friends last weekend (June 17).

She added: “It was completely mind-numbing, I couldn’t believe it.”

After she officially receives the honour later this year, Mrs Midda plans to celebrate with a charity cake sale in aid of Haven House.

Chief executive Mike Palfreman said he is “delighted” she has been chosen for the accolade.

He said: “Loraine has been a strong and active supporter of ours for many years and her generous fundraising has helped us care for more life-limited children and their families.

“She is a fantastic champion of Haven House and her energy and enthusiasm inspires us all.”

Haven House’s next big fundraiser is its circus themed summer fair on July 2. For more information, see the website.