One of the Island's best known singers and music teachers says she's amazed and delighted to have been awarded the British Empire Medal.

Eleanor Shimmin was given the award in this year's Queen's birthday honours list for her services to the Manx music scene over more than 50 years. She's taught countless children how to play piano and sing and has won the Cleveland medal herself three times.

Mrs Shimmin says she's loved every minute of her musical life and believes the standard of muscianship has improved over the years - though the styles of singing have changed in some of the younger pupils who come to her.