The vicar of Ellesmere is celebrating after she was appointed a chaplain of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

The Reverend Pat Hawkins, who became vicar of Ellesmere three weeks ago after five years as a member of the clergy team at Lichfield Cathedral, was appointed to the role on Monday.

Rev Hawkins admitted there has been an element of 'cloak and dagger' to the news, but was delighted to be appointed,.

"I had a mysterious email in January, asking if I'd be free to talk to the Bishop of Carlisle, James Newcome 'on a pleasant matter'," she said.

"My name had been put forward first of all by Bishop Michael Ipgrave (the Bishop of Lichfield).

"The 36 chaplains in England preach on a rota basis at St James’ Palace – and there is also an invitation to a Buckingham Palace Garden Party. Royal chaplains are entitled to wear a scarlet cassock.

"I was absolutely stunned when I received the initial phone call from Bishop James and thrilled and proud when the letter arrived from Buckingham Palace.

"It is an immense honour to be recognised in this way, and I am extremely excited, and also a bit nervous, at meeting Her Majesty in person, when I go to my first garden party in May."

The Bishop of Lichfield, Rt Rev Dr Michael Ipgrave who nominated her, said: "I was asked for a nomination and Pat immediately sprang to mind as someone well-suited and deserving of the role.

"I have regularly been blessed by her ministry as a priest while attending daily worship at the cathedral and at other occasions and impressed by her great commitment to prayer and pastoral care."

Pat will be formally presented to her Majesty at Buckingham Palace in May.