A WELL-known community figure in Dursley is set to appear on the nation’s tv screens after being filmed for a special edition of Songs of Praise.

Former teacher Joan Kingham, 93, from Champions Court was awarded an MBE in 2010 for her services to the community over the years.

It is because of her inclusion in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List that she will now appear on the most popular religious TV show in the country as the BBC seeks everyday Christians who have been awarded honours.

TV crews filmed Miss Kingham being interviewed by Breakfast TV and Songs of Praise presenter Bill Turnbull on Friday, November 22 at Dursley Tabernacle Church.

The Sunday school teacher told the Gazette she had gone to church all her life and had enjoyed the day of filming a lot.

“They asked me about my MBE and what it was like to get it from the Queen. I had such a lovely time,” she said.

“My family and friends have all been ringing me. They are all pleased with me. They are really excited.”

Miss Kingham taught at Dursley primary schools for more than 30 years, and is well-known within the local community.

A member of Dursley Tabernacle Church, where she used to be a lay preacher, Miss Kingham still regularly does the church flower arrangements.

She also volunteers at the Dursley Day Centre where she does the elderly people’s shopping for them, and volunteers at the Open Door Club for people with learning disabilities.

Miss Kingham is set to appear on the special edition of Songs of Praise on Sunday, December 29.