A former army Lieutenant Colonel has received an OBE.

Angela Owen received the accolade at Windsor Castle last week, presented by Princess Anne, in recognition of her services to women in the defence sector.

The 66-year-old founded Women in Defence UK, meant to engage and advance women in all aspects of national security.

She said of the award: ’It was a huge honour.

’I was really pleased too for all of the women who work in the defence sector because it’s recognition for them as well.

’It’s a fantastic event, it’s a humbling event as well because you get to see so many other people who have been honoured.

’It was presented by the Princess Royal and held at Windsor Castle which is beautiful.’

Born in Douglas, Mrs Owen was educated at the Buchan School before going on to join the army.

She also represented the Isle of Man at the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane competing in the 100m and 200m sprints.

Mrs Owen was the British Army spring champion for a number of years and one of the records she set during that time was not broken for almost 20 years.

Having retired from the army in 2006, she then worked for a major firm of defence consultants.

She is the third member of her family to receive such an award.

Her late mother Mary Carter was awarded an MBE for her charitable work with the Police Court Mission.

Also, Mrs Owen’s sister-in-law Christine Carter also received a BEM last year for her charity work for the Lonan and Laxey Anti-Cancer branch.

’It was lovely to carry that on,’ Mrs Owen added.

Now married, Mrs Owen lives in Hampshire with her husband.