A COMMUNITY “legend” has been recognised for her years of dedication.

Julia Prigg, 84, has been awarded the British Empire Medal for her care of Wrabness rail station’s garden.

The kind-hearted volunteer has transformed the place from a neglected village eyesore into a wildlife haven used by residents and schoolchildren for a range of community activities.

Julia is a member of Greater Anglia’s Station Adoption Scheme, which sees volunteers working with the train operator to improve their local rail station.

Greater Anglia’s customer and community engagement manager Alan Neville said: “We are over the moon to hear that Julia has received an honour.

“It is very well-deserved and we are extremely proud of her, and so grateful for her unwavering energy, enthusiasm and dedication to the community and its station garden.”

Having a small courtyard garden at home, volunteering at the station was a way of Julia to continue her love of gardening.

She is tending to the station with two schoolchildren who are working towards their Duke of Edinburgh Award and with a group of volunteer students who attend a special needs school.

Having looked after the garden for more than a decade, Julia has also created a wildflower garden in the lower station area.

This led her to receive the Personal Contribution Award at Greater Anglia’s Station Adoption Awards in 2019.

Community rail partnership officer Terri Ryland said. “She is constantly moving, always enhancing the station garden, ensuring it looks perfect for everyone to enjoy, from  residents to tourists from afar, often working in the station garden from dawn until dusk – sometimes even with a torch!

“She has a permanent smile on her face, is always there with a cup of tea and offers a warm welcome to all visitors in the station garden and points out the plants, birds and insects to children.”

“She is a true legend for Wrabness and I am delighted that she has been recognised at the highest level for her commitment to the station and the community.”