Long serving Lady Godiva, Pru Poretta, will this week be made an Honorary Master of Arts by Coventry University.

Pru Poretta will receive the award in Coventry Cathedral on Tuesday 13 November at 11am, for her services to local charities and in promoting the city of Coventry.

When Coventry hit recession in the early 80s the City Council decided to re-introduce Lady Godiva to try to help lift the spirits of the citizens of Coventry. A competition was launched to find the face of Coventry.

Pru was encouraged to enter by her family. In researching the history of Lady Godiva, Pru became enthralled by the legend of Lady Godiva. The research paid off for Pru who was chosen to represent Coventry as Lady Godiva.

For the past twenty years, Pru Poretta has brought Lady Godiva to life for the people of Coventry and visitors to the city. Pru tells the tale of Lady Godiva's life, bringing meaning to the history and great heritage of the City. She has played the role in schools, residential homes, hospitals and community groups.

Pru has helped raise money for a large number of local organisations and charities. She is also a prominent figure at visitor conventions, women's festivals, conferences, and various tourism events and attractions - including representing Coventry as Lady Godiva at international missions in Europe.

Pru said:

"I am delighted to be given this award by Coventry University. I feel that I am accepting it on behalf of all those who share with me the same deep love for our City, its history, its present and its future.

"I really enjoy being an ambassador for Coventry to universally promote the Godiva sprit, a timeless message of caring, unity and empowerment, stimulation and a smile for those in need of friendship.

"My heartfelt thanks to Coventry University for being a special place to nurture achievements, to provide inspiration for our people and for supporting and encouraging me through recognition in this special way."