MP David Amess surprised his mother with a trip to Downing Street to join 50 surviving members of the Women’s Land Army as they were honoured for their contribution to the war effort.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who hosted the event, handed commemorative badges to each of the women and thanked them for keeping the country supplied with food and timber during the Second World War.

Mr Amess’s mum, 96-year-old Maud Amess, said she was astonished when her taxi dropped her off outside Downing Street.

Mrs Amess, from Forest Gate, East London, said: “I thought I was going to Stratford shopping. It was a complete surprise. It was lovely.”

Wearing her commemorative badge, she said: “I’m proud of it. It is lovely.”

Mr Amess, Tory MP for Southend West, said his mother often talked fondly of her time as a Land Girl.

He added: “If it wasn’t for the likes of my mother and all the other wonderful women we wouldn’t have had food for the troops.”

Mrs Amess spoke of her fond memories: “I liked harvesting best and driving the tractor. It wasn’t easy, but I enjoyed it.”

After thanking each of the recipients individually, Mr Brown admitted: “We have been slow to thank you. We could have done this years ago, but I’m pleased that we can do it now.”

He said the women were owed a huge debt of gratitude for their part in the war effort and said he hoped they would treasure the badge and certificate which they received.

“We hold a lot of events in Downing Street, but there’s none more special than to thank you,” he said.