FORMER Great Britain badminton star Donna Kellogg was made a Member of the British Empire by the Queen on Tuesday – and proclaimed it a perfect way to round off her illustrious playing career.

Kellogg, from Spondon, received her MBE in an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle, awarded for services to her sport.

The 32-year-old competed in three Olympic Games and won three Commonwealth gold medals, as well as three European and 11 national titles.

She announced her retirement from top-level competition 12 months ago.

"I had some fantastic times on court and off the court, this definitely ranks as my best day," said Kellogg. "It's a wonderful way to round off my playing career.

"I received a lifetime achievement award from Derbyshire Sports last Friday, so it's been an absolutely fantastic week. It's nice to be recognised for what you have achieved."

Kellogg was accompanied to Windsor Castle by her parents, Neil and Sharon.

"It was a fantastic day," said Kellogg. "It was also special for my mum and dad and they both thoroughly deserved to be part of it, because they have given me so much support over the years."

Kellogg admitted to a few nerves when it was her turn to meet the Queen.

She said: "After we arrived, we got a bit of time to meet the other people who were also getting MBEs, before we were taken through the protocol of what we had to do.

"It was a bit nerve-racking but I managed to curtsy at the right moment and not trip over! It was nice that the Queen was able to spend some time talking to each of us.

"She asked me what I was doing now and I told her I had been doing some coaching. She also commented on what a quick sport badminton was.

"I had met the Queen before at Buckingham Palace after competing in the Olympics but this was completely different as all my team-mates weren't with me this time!"

Reflecting on a memorable day, Kellogg said: "It feels a bit surreal, as this is something you don't ever think will happen to you.

"When I first got the letter six months ago, it was a complete surprise and it has only really sunk in now."

For the BBC's story about Donna's MBE visit: here