Penny Brockman has been appointed an OBE in the birthday honours. Photo: MREW

A woman who has been instrumental in the development of mountain rescue in England and Wales has been recognised in the King’s birthday honours.

Penny Brockman, the finance director of Mountain Rescue England and Wales, has been appointed an OBE.

As well as being a key member of the umbrella group for rescue volunteers south of the border, she is also an active member of the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team.

A spokesperson for MREW said she has used her skills as a chartered accountant to contribute to the development of the organisation over the past 20 years, addressing financial challenges, working closely with professional advisors, and focusing on enabling teams across the country to perform and serve more effectively.

“She has also influenced and driven development and improvements in other areas, including being a role model for women in mountain rescue, leading the Women in MR group and being a strong advocate for the organisation’s shared values project,” the spokesperson said.

Mike Park, the MREW chief executive, said: “We are proud and grateful that Penny has served and supported the national body so broadly and for so long.

“This recognition is well deserved for her committed service to mountain rescue, not only in MREW but also as a member, team leader and now chair of trustees of the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team.