MARY King MBE, multi medal winner for her equestrian achievements spanning three decades , is to become a deputy lieutenant of Devon.

Mrs King was appointed with the Member of the Order of the British Empire in 2013’ s New Year Honours for services to equestrianism.

She will be David Fursdon’s , the current Lord Lieutenant of Devon, first deputy appointment in the county.

The lieutenanc y office is the monarch’ s link with the county of Devon, and David Fursdon’s rol e as the Queen’s representative is to uphold the dignity of the crown and to celebrate the achievements of the people of Devo n and their service to others .

HM Lord-Lieutenant David Fursdon appointed Mary King as a deputy lieutenant yester - day.

Mr Fursdon said: “I’m absolutely delighted to appoint Mary King as my first Deputy Lieutenant in the county.

Mary, lik e I, feels proud to live in the wonderful county of Devon, and I am pleased that she will be taking up this important post.

“She has been an inspiration to sportsmen and women, throughout the UK.