MBE for Northampton Liberal Democrat Morcea Walker
In Northampton Chronicle
Originally published by East Midlands Liberal Democrats
THE woman who resurrected the Northampton Carnival more than six years ago has been recognised by the Queen for her services to the local community.
Morcea Walker said she was unable to believe it when she found out she would be honoured with an MBE in the 2012 New Year's Honours List.
The 62-year-old, who is married with three children and lives in The Arbours, Northampton, was awarded the accolade for her services to the community in Northamptonshire.
She said: "It was an absolute shock. The work in the community and with young people is something I have always done, and I have never done it for recognition.
"The accolade is due to the people, groups and organisations who have enabled me to carry out the work. Without them I wouldn't have been able to do it."
Mrs Walker was born in Jamaica and moved to England when she was nine years old, before settling in Northampton in 1973.
She was a founder member of the Northampton West Indies Parents' Association, and was heavily involved with the Northants Black History Association.
Mrs Walker was awarded an honorary degree from The University of Northampton in 2008 for her outstanding contribution to education and training in Northamptonshire, and as a leading member of the African Caribbean community.
She said: "I work in the community because I love it and I want to see the difference it makes.
"My work has been a kaleidoscope of activity. I haven't got a favourite moment but I love working with young people."
Mrs Walker resurrected the Northampton Carnival in 2005.
She said: "I just couldn't understand why there wasn't a carnival in the town, but there were ones in surrounding areas. It was a very exciting return for it that year. I wanted something special for the community."
She added: "The core of the carnival is the community working together and it involves a mix of ages, groups, organisations and communities. The carnival belongs to the people."
Mrs Walker is currently the chairwoman of governors at Stimpson Avenue Primary School in Abington, and has been a governor at Northampton School for Boys since 1988.