A Cumbrian woman has been honoured by the Japanese government for her outstanding contribution to relations between Japan and the UK. 

Jane Hasell-McCosh, founder of the Dalemain World Marmalade Awards, received the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays on October 1 at the official residence of the Japanese ambassador Hajime Hayashi. 

Dalemain has supported the development of a similar marmalade award in Japan which is held in Yawatahama and last year received more than 2,000 entries.

Ms Hasell-McCosh said: "It’s an extraordinary thing to be recognised in this way. I feel extremely proud to be receiving this award which I do so partly on behalf of so many others who volunteered and contributed to both the UK and Japan festivals and awards which make them what they are today.

"It has been a huge pleasure to spend time in Japan and visit the festival in Yawatahama over the past five years since it began and to get to know the team there, led by Mayor Ishiro Oshiro."

Ms Hasell-McCosh sits among household names as one of the recipients of the Order of the Rising Sun.

These include Bill Gates, William Hague, Gustave Eiffel, Olivia Newton-John, Nancy Pelosi, Caroline Kennedy, Ted Heath, John Major and Clint Eastwood.

The Japanese festival and awards are sponsored by Fortnum & Mason which also sell the winning marmalade in its shop. 

Last year's winner was Mr Shuichi Yoshida with a yuzu marmalade.

Mr Hayashi said: "I would like to extend heartfelt congratulations on this esteemed honour for significant contributions which have played a pivotal role in strengthening ties between Japan and the United Kingdom through the world marmalade awards and festival as well as through Dalemain Historic House and Gardens.

"I am deeply respectful and grateful for the efforts of Jane Hasell-McCosh."

Next year will mark the 20th anniversary of the Dalemain World Marmalade Awards with the competition opening for entries on January 1. 

This year, the entry fee for the homemade marmalade competition will be donated to Hospice at Home, Carlisle & North Lakeland. 

Since it's creation in 2005, more than £250,000 has been raised for charity.