Husband and wife voluntary workers Stuart and Elaine Parker have achieved the rare distinction of both being awarded MBEs (honorary British royal titles) in the Queen's New Year's Honours List.
The Parkers, of Eld Road, Foleshill, Coventry, said they were "gobsmacked" when they were told that they were being honoured by for their services to the community.
Mr Parker, 56, has been chairman of Foleshill Festival Committee and is the leader of the Foleshill Sports Project, providing free football and basketball sessions for youngsters. And Mrs Parker, 57, was secretary of the Foleshill Festival Committee and, along with her husband, sat on Coventry City Council's area coordination north team, for Foleshill. Mr Parker, who has spina bifida and uses a wheelchair, said the MBE was a "completely unexpected honour" and dedicated it to people in Foleshill. The father-of-two, who also has a granddaughter, said: "For us both to be recognised is marvellous.