West Worcestershire MP Dame Harriett Baldwin was formally awarded her Damehood at Windsor Castle by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.

The MP was joined by close family at the ceremony which saw her confirmed as Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire recognising her public and parliamentary services. The award was announced in March 2024.

Dame Harriett was presented with her honour by Princess Anne, who has visited Malvern many times and the two last met at a ceremony to open a new hall at the Three Counties Showground, in July.

The Princess has been a stalwart champion of the area and is a patron of the summer agricultural show which has been held in Malvern for six decades and can be traced back to 1794.

Dame Harriett said:

“This is an honour that I share with my family and friends and all those who have supported me in my time in public service. I want to thank the people of West Worcestershire who have continued to put their faith in me as their Member of Parliament at five General Elections.

“Representing our area in Parliament is a huge privilege and I was also Chair of the Treasury Select Committee in the last Parliament, where I helped millions of savers get higher rates on their savings.

“Getting such an honour is truly humbling and it was particularly pleasing to receive it from The Princess Royal, who has been such a staunch supporter of our area.

“Shortly, Parliament will return after the party conferences, and of course, the work is never done. I look forward to continuing to campaign for improvements in our area.”