Labour MP Louise Ellman was presented with her damehood by Prince Charles on Thursday.

The Buckingham Palace investiture followed her inclusion last year in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List as a Dame Commander of the British Empire.

She said: “It was a very special occasion and a fantastic experience. I felt very honoured to receive this award which I believe reflects the importance of the people of Riverside and the regeneration of Liverpool.”

Dame Louise has been Labour MP for Liverpool Riverside and was previously the Labour leader of Lancashire County Council for 16 years. For nine years, up to the last general election, she chaired the influential transport select committee.