THE founder of a charity in Comet country attended a reception hosted by Prime Minister Gordon Brown and his wife Sarah at Downing Street. Hilda Lawrence was a councillor and mayor of Stevenage when she drew on her local knowledge to set up the Stevenage

THE founder of a charity in Comet country attended a reception hosted by Prime Minister Gordon Brown and his wife Sarah at Downing Street.

Hilda Lawrence was a councillor and mayor of Stevenage when she drew on her local knowledge to set up the Stevenage Community Trust in 1990.

It is an independent charitable trust which seeks to enhance the quality of life of people living in Stevenage and the surrounding villages through a system of grants.

Mrs Lawrence was the guest of Barbara Follett, MP for Stevenage, at a reception held to mark International Women's Day - an annual celebration of the economic, social and political achievements of women.

Mrs Follett said: "I was delighted to invite Mrs Lawrence to Downing Street as a small thank you for everything she has done for the people of Stevenage."

Mr Brown said: "It is great to meet so many inspiring women; women who are making a real difference to their communities day in, day out.