Hemmings sees unsung career honoured with MBE

SIX-time world canoeing champion Anna Hemmings has been awarded an MBE in the New Year's honours list.

FLYING THE FLAG: Anna Hemmings won six world titles during a career that didn't make the headlines it deserved (British Canoeing)

Hemmings, 33, who retired earlier this year, made two Olympic appearances but is best known for success over her sport's marathon distances.

She was told she would have to retire from elite sport in 2003 after being diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

However, she resumed training just two years later - going on to win a clean sweep of national, European and world titles.

"It is a huge honour and I feel humbled and privileged to be named alongside so many sporting greats," said Hemmings.

"I have won a handful of awards over the years, but this is on another level entirely, it really is the ‘icing on the cake’ for my career. It’s also a tribute to all of the people who have helped and supported me along the way - thanks to family, friends, sponsors, coaches, training partners.

"I didn’t even realise that I had been nominated for the honour, so when I received a letter asking me if I would accept the award it was a complete but lovely surprise.

"I am now looking forward to the trip to Buckingham Palace for the Investiture and to meet the Queen or it may be Prince Charles, either way I’m pretty excited and have bought a new outfit already!"