AN inspirational 97-year-old woman has received the town's highest civic honour following her dedication to reducing isolation among the elderly.

Fairfield great grandmother Margaret Isherwood was announced as an Honorary Freewoman of the borough at the Town Hall on Monday.

She has been a member of the central area neighbourhood board since it began in 2009 and has continued to champion the needs of older people.

And her participation in meetings and working groups has had a big influence in cutting down isolation, as well as improving the health and wellbeing of older residents.

Margaret's selfless work includes her involvement in St Margaret's Elders Group, which provides social activities for over 60s each week in Latchford.

Having run the group for the past five years, she has helped raise thousands of pounds to run craft and exercise activities, room hire, social outings and even encouraged new members to get involved.

She has trained and qualified to deliver chair-based exercise classes and also supports the development of borough-wide organisations including the Older People's Engagement Group, as well as volunteering each year to champion World Mental Health Day.

The Honorary Freewoman honour is given to those who have demonstrated an achievement or valuable service to the community.

Councillors in the Town Hall praised Margaret, who was joined by granddaughter Emily Lancaster and daughter Sandra Grimshaw, for her efforts.

Cllr Steve Wright (LAB – Latchford East), who seconded the motion to make Margaret an Honorary Freewoman, after it was proposed by executive member for statutory health and adult social care Cllr Pat Wright, walked across the chamber to hug and congratulate the 'formidable lady'.

But it is not the first time Margaret has been recognised.

Last year she received an MBE for her services to adult learning – and got a cheeky wink along the way from Prince William.

Cllr Wright said she, along with many other generations, have been inspired by the volunteer's work.

"Her enthusiasm and determination to promote a positive image and experience for older people is second to none and her enthusiasm is unwavering," she added.

"Margaret has demonstrated the important role that people can play in their community and that age shouldn't prevent you from doing what you love.

"I must congratulate Margaret on her proposal and thank her for her sheer hard work and dedication over the years."