Community champions honoured with British Empire Medals
Eight of Devon’s community volunteers were honoured by the Queen last Thursday, 20 April, when they were presented with a British Empire Medal (BME).
They were presented with their awards by Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Devon, David Fursdon, the Queen’s representative in the county, at the Investiture at County Hall.
The eight men and women, from South Hams, North Devon, Torridge, Plymouth, Torbay and Teignbridge were all named in the New Year’s Honours List 2017.
The British Empire Medal is awarded for meritorious service worthy of recognition by the Crown.
It marks an achievement or contribution of a very 'hands-on' service to their community. This might take the form of sustained commitment in support of a charitable organisation, a voluntary activity or innovative work that has had a positive impact in the community.
Those decorated were:
Mrs Jacqueline Avery, from Appledore for voluntary Service to ex Service Personnel – Secretary of North Devon & Torridge Division of SSAFA
Mr Peter Bromell, from Tedburn St Mary for service to the community in the Tedburn St Mary area.
Mrs Angela Chant, from Kingsbridge for services for Young People in the South Hams area. Project Director of SPIRITULIZED.
Mr Barrie Charlesworth, from Braunton for services to Life Saving in North Devon
Mrs Jeanette J Courtman, from Plymouth for services to education and the community in Devon. After School Club chair, Pre School chair and Breakfast Club chair.
Mrs Maureen M Gilbert, from Brixham for services to the community in Brixham.
Mrs Melissa F Middleton, from Teignmouth for services to charity in Kenya and the community of Devon.
Mr Norman F Pullen, from Shillingford St George for services to Exeter Cathedral and the community in Exeter.
David Fursdon Esq, Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, said:
“It has been a real pleasure to acknowledge and recognise the commitment of those people in Devon who have been honoured for being true community champions.
“All the men and women awarded their British Empire Medals today were honoured for their work in different areas but all share an unwavering commitment to improving their community through voluntary work or through their support of a charitable cause.
“Through hard work and dedication they have all changed their communities for the better and I congratulate all of them, they should be very proud of their achievements.”
