Phyllis Maycock, who was awarded the MBE after 50 years as a bus conductor, has died at the age of 82.

She looked after Charlton Services passengers for 49 years and was among the first members of the public to be included in the Honours List.

She lived in Charlton-on-Otmoor all her life and was known for her caring, personal touch with passengers, as well as her blunt character.

On school runs to Oxford, Bicester, Thame or Wheatley, she always ensured children got on and off safely. If a child was not waiting at the bus stop, she would go into the school to find out where they were.

She retired on Christmas Eve 1992 after 49 years with the company. In 1994 she not only received her honour but also became the subject of the BBC television show This is Your Life.

Animals were the love of her life and she took in various stray dogs and cats over the years.

She leaves a daughter, two grandsons and six great-grandchildren.

Her funeral was on January 7 at St Mary's Church, Charlton-on-Otmoor. Instead of flowers, donations can be made to the Tsunami earthquake appeal or the RSPCA.