Deserved honour

THERE was no more deserving recipient of an honour from the Queen at yesterday’s investitures at Buckingham Palace than Shirley Woodman, the woman whose integrity, determination, tenacity, and yes, bravery, have tipped the balance of the law away from those who offend in favour of their victims.

Her 20-year battle to win damages from the man who raped her, who then, grotesquely, became a multi-millionaire thanks to a lottery win while on day release from the prison sentence he was serving for the offence established the important principle that there is no time limit on sueing for damages in cases of serious assault.

For Mrs Woodman to embark on such a campaign was admirable; she struck a blow for decency, common sense and natural justice. She took a stand when one needed to be taken, and won for the sake of others.

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No less admirable was her decision to donate the damages she won to charity. The Queen’s Birthday and New Year Honours exist to celebrate those who make valuable contributions to society; Mrs Woodman exemplifies their spirit.

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