A LEADING naval logistician says she is beaming with pride after being awarded an MBE.

Mum-of-one Claire Hughes, from Leigh, is being honoured by the Queen for her role as a career manager at HMNB Devonport in Plymouth from October 2010 to last September.

The 28-year-old, who joined the Royal Navy after leaving school at 16, was responsible for a number of duties, including assigning personnel to ships in a difficult period of redundancies.

The former Lowton High School pupil said: “I could never have imagined receiving an award like this.

“I have been acknowledged for my work before but never could have foreseen this.

“My job at Devonport was stressful and there were good and bad days, but walking away with an MBE has certainly made it all worth it.”

Claire was recommended for an MBE by Royal Navy commander David Wilkinson.

While she was undertaking her duties Claire's husband James, 34, who she met 11 years ago when training at HMS Raleigh in Cornwall, served two tours of duty in Afghanistan and spent a year working in Germany.

During this time Claire juggled her career with looking after their now seven-year-old daughter Tilly on her own.

Claire, who has been working as an instructor at HMS Raleigh since September, said: “I would like to thank my family and friends for all the support they have always given me.

“They were all buzzing when I told them about the MBE and have told everyone they know about it.”

Two other people from Leigh have also been named on the Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

Foster carer Edward Davenport has been given an MBE for services to children and families.

Lynda Fairhurst, who previously worked as head of lifelong learning at Oldham Council, has been awarded an OBE for services to further education.