A STROUD opera singer has received the award of Dame Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her services to music.

Sarah Connolly, 54, is an internationally renowned mezzo-soprano, performing during the BBC Last Night of the Proms in 2009.

She was awarded an OBE following the New Year’s honours list in 2010 but is astounded to have been awarded damehood.

Sarah said: “I am entirely amazed and honoured to receive a DBE. I have always strived to be myself in a world where expectations can appear unattainable and strange, yet I have found sanctuary and delight too.

“I am so lucky to have learned, and keep learning from wonderful friends and colleagues.”

When Sarah is not performing she spends her time in Selsley with her husband and daughter plus often doing charity work in Stroud.

Locally, Sarah is president of Stroud Choral Society and she was the driving force behind the new Ivor Gurney window in Gloucester Cathedral, both campaigning for its installation and instigating fund-raising events culminating in a day’s festival within the cathedral.

Sarah has also sung twice in Selsley church, fundraising for a new roof.

In July, she will be singing at the Three Choirs Festival in Worcester.