This honour 'means more than I can say'

31 December 2025

Adam AikenEast Yorkshire and Lincolnshire

News image — Princess Anne presided over the ceremony in London

Yui Mok/PA Media A side shot of Princess Anne, wearing a black uniform, talking to a young woman, who is wearing a white trouser suit. In the background are two men in uniform, including a Beefeater in red. — Princess Anne presided over the ceremony in London

It's been a year to remember for a woman who has been made an MBE at the age of just 35.

Eleanor Hutton, from Fulstow, near Louth, Lincolnshire, has been honoured for her dedication to children's early years' provision.

The announcement that she had been appointed an MBE was made in the summer, but she had to wait until this month for the investiture – a moment she says she will treasure for the rest of her life.

Mrs Hutton and her family visited St James's Palace, where the Princess Royal presented her with her medal.

"I had no inkling at all that the letter was coming. When it arrived, dated 1 May (my birthday), I genuinely thought it must be a mistake. It still doesn't feel real," she said.

"I felt a mix of disbelief, pride and deep emotion. It is very much a team effort, though."

Mrs Hutton has already packed a lot into her short career, working as an Ofsted inspector and as an early years and special educational needs and disabilities governor at North Somercotes Primary School, near Louth.

She is founder and director of Explorosity, in Waltham, North East Lincolnshire, which has been rated as Outstanding by Ofsted.

Yui Mok/PA Media A woman in a smart trouser suit has her medal attached to her by Princess Anne. The carpet is red. A number of officials are standing to attention in the background. — The investiture took place at St James's Palace

"We opened with very little but with huge passion," she said.

"The early years are the most important stage of a child's life – a time when curiosity, wonder and emotional security should be at the heart of everything.

"Early years work is often quiet, unseen work, so to have it recognised in this way means more than I can say."

Mrs Hutton's husband Josh and daughter Elora were among those who joined her at the palace for the ceremony with Princess Anne.

"It was overwhelmingly joyful – seeing my family beaming, standing in the palace and hearing my name called. It was a moment I'll treasure for the rest of my life."

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