A MUCH-LOVED stage school founder is “chuffed” to be named in the New Year’s honours for outstanding work creating amazing opportunities for young people.

Moira Brock, from Laindon, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s honours list. Moira, 73, is the founder of Basildon-based La Danse Fantastique which has given children with special needs and able bodies a platform to showcase their talent through music and dance for three decades.

Speaking to the Echo about being named in the New Year’s honours list, she said: “It feels absolutely surreal.

“I’m so chuffed about it because I never thought in a million years I would get anything like this.

“I got an email about two or three weeks ago, and I’ve been trying to take it all in ever since.

“What’s been hard about the news is that I couldn’t say anything, but I’m so glad I can share the fantastic news with all my loved ones.

“To celebrate this, I need to do something with my pupils and staff because the award is also for them. “What a way to finish such a fantastic year.”

The BEM is a British and Commonwealth award for hands-on service to the community through long-term charitable or voluntary activity or innovative work that has made a big difference.

The performing arts school, in Bowlers Croft, was launched in 1990 where children and toddlers of all ages and abilities have been taught ballet, musical theatre, drama and singing by Moira and her talented team of teachers.

The honour comes after Moira was awarded the British Citizen Award (BCA) for services to the arts in Parliament in March.

The British Citizen Award programme was founded in 2012 and is designed for people who have had a meaningful impact on their community, with nominations being made by the public.

Moira added: “We offer a platform for young people of all ages and abilities to showcase their talent and passion for performing arts.

“We encourage children with exceptional talent but if they’ve got special needs, we’ll work our socks off to achieve their very best.

“I’m so proud of my pupils.” For more information about La Danse Fantastique, visit: ladansefantastique.uk.com.