MBE for mercy work in Bosnia (From Droitwich Advertiser)

MBE for mercy work in Bosnia

10:18am Tuesday 13th May 2008

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A FORMER Spa resident has been honoured with an MBE for her dedicated work in war-torn Bosnia.

Jennifer Stone-Wigg, who was brought up in the town and lived in Newland Road until she was 24, received the prestigious award from the queen at Buckingham Palace last Wednesday.

“When I heard the news I was amazed. I don’t know who recommended me for it. It is just testimony to the people who have helped me over the years."

Aid worker Jennifer Stone-Wigg

After moving to Lugarno, Switzerland, Jennifer, who used to be a member of Droitwich's St Peter's Church, first visited Bosnia in 1994. She made her way into the troubled region with the help of an Italian priest.

Now working for charity Swiss Help for Peace in Bosnia, the 66-year-old Brit helps distribute financial aid so that people can get medical treatment, heating, better sanitary conditions and books for their children.

So far the group has helped more than 140 families as they continue to get back on their feet following the war years.

"The queen asked me when I first went and said that she had not realised that people were still suffering so much," said Jennifer.

"When I heard the news I was amazed. I don't know who recommended me for it. It is just testimony to the people who have helped me over the years," she added.

Jennifer, who was in Bosnia during numerous bombing raids, said that many people now don't realise that there is still a problem in the country and that many children have cancer because of the weapons used during the conflict.

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