Angie Aire, chairwoman of the charity Breast Cancer Now Isle of Man, has been presented with an MBE by Prince William.

The ceremony took place at Buckingham Palace on Friday.

She was one of three Manx residents, along with Aileen Gelling and Julian Power to be recognised in the Queen’s New Year honours.

Mrs Aire told the Manx Independent: ’I was a little nervous, hoping I’d remember to curtsey and stand in the right place but everything was fine.

’I remembered to address William correctly, he was very relaxed and put me and all other recipients at ease.

’He congratulated me and our charity for all the voluntary work we have achieved with Breast Cancer Now Isle of Man, raising awareness and funds for vital research into this disease.’

Mrs Aire, of Onchan received her MBE for services to charity and the wider community. She was keen to stress the importance of everyone involved with the charity and thank the Manx community for its support.

’I would like to say a huge thank you to our fantastic, hard working committee who are a wonderful support to me and our charity of which none of this would have been possible but for each and every one of them.

’Our charity would like to thank the Manx public who have donated over £1.8 million since we began 25 years ago. Also a huge thanks to my very supportive family without whom I could not give so much of my time to Breast Cancer Now Isle of Man.

’Our charity’s aim is that "by 2050 anyone who develops breast cancer will live" and we can only achieve this if we all work together, raising awareness of this disease and much needed funds to continue the crucial scientific research to meet our goal.’

Mrs Aire added that Prince William revealed ’how much he loves the TT as a keen biker himself and that he has visited the great event many times’.

The Prince has been pictured visiting the motor festival in previous years.

She was joined at the ceremony by her family, husband Ian, three sons Robert, James, Matthew, and James’ fiancé Sarah.

She said that it was a fabulous weekend and an amazing event that she would never forget.