PEMBROKESHIRE'S, Emma Picton-Jones, has been shortlisted for a prestigious award recognising the extraordinary achievements of people in Wales.

On Thursday, Emma was announced as a St David Awards finalist for 2019 by First Minister Mark Drakeford.

Emma set up the DPJ Foundation in 2016 after her husband Daniel, an agricultural contractor, took his own life due to struggles with his mental health.

The charity helps people in the rural community with mental health problems, especially men in the agricultural sector.

Emma speaks at agricultural events to raise awareness of the foundation’s work to support other businesses, which may then recognise the signs of mental health struggles among their customers. Emma has also raised around £75,000 to support the foundation’s work.

Emma has already won a Pride of Britain award and a Point of Light award. She is one of the finalists in the citizenship category of the St Davids awards.

The St David Awards are the national awards of Wales, which recognise the extraordinary achievements and contributions of people in, or from, Wales and from all walks of life.

Announcing the finalists, the First Minister said: “Being involved with the St David Awards for the first time, I was struck by the inspiring talent Wales has across so many different areas.

“These awards are a celebration, acknowledging some amazing and remarkable people. Each of the finalists have made a significant difference – overcoming adversity and achieving something truly inspirational.

“All of our St David Awards finalists are exceptional – every person and organisation is a credit to our nation. I look forward to celebrating their achievements at the awards ceremony on 21st March.”

The award categories are: Bravery, Citizenship, Culture, Enterprise, Innovation, Science and Technology, International, Sport and Young Person.