Clare Martin has been appointed an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list.
The CEO of Pompey in the Community is receiving the award for services to the local community.
“I was flabbergasted when I heard the news,” said Clare. “I don’t think it’s something that anybody ever expects – I certainly didn’t.
“Most of the recognition we get is for the organisation, so it does feel strange to receive something individually. It’s humbling.
“I found out about a month ago and had to keep it a secret, but I did tell my mum, who’s in a nursing home with Parkinson’s and dementia.
"Most of the recognition we receive is for the organisation, so it does feel strange to receive something individually. It’s humbling."
“I thought it would be nice to tell her this secret that nobody else knows. My husband doesn’t even know and it’s been a challenge to keep quiet and not tell another soul about this!
“You always think of these honours going to actors and other people in the public eye, but there are also lots of people working quietly behind the scenes.”
Portsmouth Football Club chief executive Andrew Cullen said: “All of us at the club are delighted and thrilled for Clare.
“We’re incredibly proud of everything that she – and everyone at PitC – have achieved to benefit so many people throughout the local community.
“The work that Clare and her team do is an inspiration to us all and so this award is great recognition for that.”
"The work that Clare and her team do is an inspiration to us all and so this award is great recognition for that."
Pompey in the Community – who were recently awarded the freedom of the city – is an independent charitable trust that is affiliated to Portsmouth Football Club.
They harness the motivational power of Pompey to promote education, healthy living, sporting participation and achievement among participants of all ages.
Clare said: “We’re working so hard to produce the John Jenkins Stadium for the community at the moment.
“So many people at the charity and the club have done so much work in Portsmouth and the surrounding areas and so the MBE is testament to that.”