A CEO of a Wrexham-based business said she is "surprised" and "honoured" to have been awarded an OBE. 

Joanna Swash, group CEO of Moneypenny, was recognised in the New Year's Honours list for her services to the economy. 

She said: ”I was surprised but am very proud and honoured to be recognised for my contribution to the local economy.

"The award recognises Moneypenny’s international growth, the strong culture created by the founders, the brilliant work by our management team and the jobs created in Wrexham, London and the US.  

"It is also wonderful to have been able to make a difference locally - both by chairing the City of Culture bids for Wrexham and through harnessing the collective goodwill of cross party politicians, local authorities and so many local business leaders to drive the Investment Zone for Wrexham and Flintshire."

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She was one of five people from Wrexham and Flintshire to have been recognised.

They included Helen Margaret Zammit-Willson (director at Valuation Office Agency) for services to the surveying Profession and Deborah Ann Turnbull (founder of River and Sea Sense) for services to water safety education for young people and families.

Also included were Amanda Giddins (chair of Giddo’s Gift) For voluntary and charitable services to young People with cancer and Linda Elaine Williams (Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust) for services to the Community First Responder Scheme in North Wales.