A TIRELESS volunteer has been honoured by Princess Anne at Buckingham Palace for services to people with disabilities.

Catherine Caskie Khan says it was the ‘best day ever’ when she was awarded the MBE by her Royal Highness at a glitzy ceremony in London.

The 69-year-old from Langbank has dedicated the past 36 years to helping disabled people dance across Inverclyde.

Speaking to the Tele, she said: “I had a wonderful time – it was the best day ever.

“I received the award from Princess Anne, she was lovely.

“She told me she remembered seeing the The Inverclyders Wheelchair Dance Team perform at the Battery Park years ago.

“It’s so special to me that she remembered that.

“We chatted for ages, she gave time to everyone who was receiving an award.

“It was an amazing day and one that I’ll always remember.”

Catherine has had a major impact in developing recreational and social activity for wheelchair users in Inverclyde and across Scotland.

It was back in 1980 when, alongside Christine Caldwell, she helped to set up Inverclyde’s first wheelchair dance group, who were known as ‘Tail O’ The Bank’ and more recently The Inverclyders Wheelchair Dance Team.

Joining Catherine at Buckingham Palace was her husband Amjad, her daughter Karen, her son-in law Jim and her grandson Ryan, pictured.

She added: “They were all so proud. Buckingham Palace is a wonderful place.

“We all had a great time."

After the ceremony, Catherine and her family enjoyed a few days in London.

She said: “We actually won a ballot run by Ronnie Cowan to go to Prime Minister’s Questions.

“That was entertaining and we had a tour round the House of Commons.”

Catherine is now looking forward to nights out with her work colleagues and with the wheelchair dance team to celebrate her royal recognition.