The French Government has invited a Bermuda resident to join the Ordre des Palmes Académiques (Order of Academic Palms).

Mariette Savoie was granted the title of 'Chevalier', in recognition of the efforts she has made in promoting French culture on the Island.

Mrs. Savoie has been an executive member of the board of L'Alliance Française des Bermuda since 1990, serving as president from 2001 to 2003, and 2006 to 2007.

She said: "I am greatly honoured and surprised to have been given this award by the French Government.

"I have really enjoyed running the Concours Annuel, meeting so many talented young people, refreshed every year by their enthusiasm and their desire to learn more about the French language and culture."

She added: "Our students come back from Cannes, or Quebec City, not only with a greater knowledge, love, and appreciation of the French language and culture, but also having developed friendships with students from all around the world.

"We have been very fortunate for the generous support of Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Humann and the Christian Humann Foundation without whom we could not offer this programme."

This award is one of the world's oldest, civil awards. It was created by Napoleon to honour eminent members of the University of Paris and re-established on October 4, 1955 by President René Coty.