A LONG-SERVING Maldon councillor has been presented with his MBE at Buckingham Palace.

Althorne councillor Bob Boyce was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire in the Queen’s Birthday Honours lists in June.

Last week he was presented with the award by Prince Charles alongside other recipients including singer Michael Ball.

Mr Boyce, 77, of Lawlinge Road, Latchingdon, enjoyed a breakfast at Mayfair Hotel before driving along the Mall to Buckingham Palace.

He said: “It was an amazing experience.

“We were shown into the waiting room with the other recipients and received our instructions as to the procedure.

“You are invited to the ball room where the Prince of Wales was.

“I presented myself to his Royal Highness and said a few words which I have probably completely forgotten as I was in a state of shock.

“Then we went into the courtyard where the photographs were taken.

“The day went very fast – it was quite a wondrous experience.”

It was only after working at Bradwell power station as a machine attendant until he was in his mid 40s that he decided to do more work in the community.

In 1983 he stood to become a Conservative councillor and was elected unopposed.

Since then, the 76-year-old has served as leader and chairman of the council and has long been a champion for affordable housing.