A HAMPSHIRE mum who has dedicated her life to improving the lives of hundreds of children suffering with cerebral palsy has received the royal seal of approval.

Helen Somerset How who set up the Rainbow Centre in Fareham from her front room 19 years ago, has received her MBE at Windsor Castle.

The mother of three decided to set up the charity after her son Tom, now 26, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of seven months. She found that there was not sufficient support available for families.

She travelled to Hungary with three other parents to find out more about a form of conductive education which has since helped nearly 500 youngsters.

Helen said: “The Investiture was an absolutely brilliant occasion for my family and me but there are many people throughout the past 20 years who have made the centre the success it is today and this amazing honour is a reflection of their efforts as well as mine.”