Catherine Joan Francis MBE

Catherine’s love of writing was cemented by her first poem being published in the school magazine. A few years later, she joined a publishing company, which enhanced her writing prowess. Desperate to work abroad, Catherine applied for and was accepted as a personal assistant in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Overseas, she enjoyed the unique experience of working alongside various Ambassadors. Shortly before retirement, Catherine was honoured with an MBE, presented at Buckingham Palace by the late Queen Elizabeth II.