A woman who has dedicated more than three decades of her life to Oxford's Scouts has been awarded a top honour.

Alison Parkinson, 76, has been given the Silver Wolf - the highest award made by the Scouting Movement - in recognition of her work over the past 38 years.

Mrs Parkinson said: "It is something I never expected to happen.

"When I opened the letter telling me, I just burst into tears.

"Not many of these get given out, so to be one of the few to have one makes me feel very honoured."

Mrs Parkinson, of Derwent Avenue, Headington, only got involved with the Scouting Movement in 1970 when her son wanted to join the Cubs.

She said: "At the time I started there was a shortage of adult leaders and I went in as a parent helper, and here I am all these years later.

"It's great fun and it lets the children get involved with a wide range of different activities. They really enjoy themselves."

Mrs Parkinson went on to become an assistant Cub Scout leader at the 10th Oxford, who meet at William Street in Marston.

Since then she has held various positions in the movement, including assistant district commissioner of Cub Scouts in the former Headington district, now part of Oxford Spires. She now helps with the 43rd Oxford, who meet at Boults Lane in Old Marston, and has taken on extra roles leading camp fires and compiling a Cubs prayer book.

Oxford Spires district commissioner Val Butcher said: "I am extremely proud of Alison, if anyone deserves this award she does."