EASTER Compton resident and Bristol City FC president Marina Dolman has been awarded with an MBE for her long service to football.

Mrs Dolman, who has been active within the club for more than half a century, having married then club chairman Harry Dolman in 1961, was included in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list, which was released last night.

She joins the club’s owner Steve Lansdown on the list, who was made a CBE for his services to business and the community of Bristol.

Speaking on the club’s website, Mr Lansdown praised the president, saying “nobody deserves this recognition more than Marina.

“For many, many years she has supported football at all levels in the Bristol region, and she has been marvellous in her support for Bristol City Football Club.”

Mrs Dolman said: “It’s a great surprise but I’m very, very honoured.

“I first came to watch Bristol City in August 1961 after I married Harry and it’s now 56 years that I’ve been watching.

“Football is an important part of my life, at all levels. As well as being president for Bristol City FC and the Bristol City Supporters Club and Trust, I’m also president of the Sunday League.

“My Sundays are often spent watching my nephew play for Shire Colts. I’ve been watching him right from under-8 level and he now plays for the Under-14s!”

She added: “Steve’s CBE is thoroughly deserved and I’m absolutely delighted for him and his family.”

The club’s chief operating officer Mark Ashton said: “Everyone at Bristol City Football Club would like to congratulate Steve and Marina. These honours are thoroughly deserved and couldn’t be awarded to two better people.”