Inspiring young fundraiser Carmela Chillery-Watson has become the youngest recipient of an MBE.
Carmela, a student at Shaftesbury Victoria School, was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours for her services to charitable fundraising.
The 11-year-old, who has a rare and progressive muscle-wasting condition, which affects her movement, heart and lungs, has raised more than £400,000 for charities by completing 25 challenges and campaigns.
On Wednesday, she met the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle, where she received the Member of the Order of the British Empire medal.
Carmela said: ‘I couldn’t believe it when I found out I would be meeting Prince William. When the moment finally came, it felt unreal! He was really kind, and receiving my MBE from him is something I’ll never forget.
‘Going to Windsor Castle and being given an MBE was truly amazing, and I’m so proud to share this moment with all of you. Thank you for supporting me.’
In June, Carmela undertook a five-mile walk and wheel from school to Bournemouth Pier and back to raise funds for new accessible wash/dry toilets.
In a nod to the cause, it was dubbed the ‘Poo Plod’ and Carmela made the journey dressed as a toilet, with her mum Lucy alongside her in an inflatable poo costume, raising more than £2,600.