A COMMUNITY leader who has devoted 35 years to Middlewich has been named Cheshire Rural Woman of the Year.

Clr Jean Eaton, of Long Lane, was presented with a commemorative clock at a ceremony in Byley to celebrate World Rural Women’s Day.

The 62-year-old was recognised for her tireless work helping community groups and promoting the town.

She has been a volunteer with the Wych Centre for 30 years, a fundraiser for 1st Middlewich Scouts for 10 years and a town councillor for eight years.

Jean also resurrected the Middlewich Rose Fete six years ago.

She said: “Hearing it all I thought: ‘When did I have time to have a family?’ “My daughter Catherine said to me: ‘It’s about time they realise what you do for this town’.”

Jean was passionate about starting the Rose Fete again as Catherine, 42, was Rose Queen when she was 12.

Her granddaughter Beanna, who lives in Stoke, also wanted to be Middlewich’s Rose Queen last year.

The 12-year-old couldn’t because she didn’t live in the area but Jean pulled a few strings so she could be an attendant.

Jean also became involved with the Scouts because her two sons Martin, 38, and Matthew, 29, were members when they were young.

She added: “I don’t do things to be recognised. I do it to give something back.

“But the award really did make me feel appreciated for the things I do. It gives you a buzz - it makes you think: ‘What else can I do?’”

Jean, who has lived in Middlewich for 38 years with her husband Tom, was presented with the award at Byley Village Hall in front of more than 100 people.

She said: “It was a bit like This Is Your Life because they went all the way back to 1974 when I met Princess Margaret who opened the new NSPCC centre in Warrington.

“She came up to speak to me and for once I was gobsmacked - I couldn’t say anything.”

Erika Wenzel, chief executive of Cheshire East Council, added: “We are proud to celebrate the achievements of Cheshire's rural women through this awards evening.

“This event has gone from strength to strength and continues to bring many Cheshire organisations together to pay tribute to women who are making a real difference in our rural communities.”