LOCAL residents have received British Empire Medals for service to their communities.
A ceremony was hosted at Staffordshire County Council with the honours presented by the Lord-Lieutenant, Sir Ian Dudson KCVO CBE, on behalf of The King.
Among the recipients were Simon and Michelle Hawkins from Burntwood for services to foster care and Gifford Andrew Foote for services to Armitage and Handsacre.
Sir Ian said:
“Since the British Empire Medal was reintroduced in 2012 to mark our late Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee, it has become a significant and much-admired part of our honours system.
“The medal often uniquely recognises voluntary contributions at a very local community level. I am delighted that we now have another six recipients from the New Year 2025 Honours List, whose wonderful contributions have been recognised.
“I am delighted and privileged to have presented their medals on behalf of His Majesty The King.
“This investiture is my last before retirement as Lord-Lieutenant and since 2012 I have had the pleasure of presenting 110 Staffordshire residents with this well-deserved recognition.”
Cllr Paul Williams, chairman of Staffordshire County Council, said:
“It was a great privilege for me to host these presentations and honour these fantastic people who have done so much for our communities.
“They have all made invaluable contributions in their services and it was a great pleasure to see them receive such prestigious recognition from His Majesty for their hard work given over many years.”
