Cheshire people serving their communities have received awards in the delayed Queen’s Birthday Honours list.
They include Graham Witter, who for the past seven years has raised huge amounts of money for a children’s hospice in memory of his sister.
Graham has organised the popular Weston Christmas Lights display at his family’s farm in Weston each year in aid of Donna Louise Hospice. He has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM).
Graham said: “I’m so very humbled to receive a ‘British Empire Medal’ (BEM) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List this year! My sister, Jessica, would be so proud.”
Also honoured is Andrew Bentley, from Tarporley, who is the CEO of Chester Storyhouse.
He has received the BEM for services to libraries and the arts.
He said: “Obviously this is just lovely news and I am genuinely taken aback.
“This is really a well-deserved recognition for all the hard work our talented team have put in over the years.”
Cheshire’s Chief Fire Officer Mark Cashin has been awarded the Queen’s Fire Service Medal after almost 31 years in fire and rescue.
Mark, 50, has been recognised for the contribution to fire prevention, keeping people healthy and safe from fire.
He said: “I am humbled and honoured.
“I firmly believe the prevention activity the service undertakes makes a huge difference to people’s safety. In some cases, life-changing or life-saving.
“That is why I am keen to push forward our innovative programmes such as Safe and Well, Safety Central, The Prince’s Trust and our wider work across Cheshire.
“While I am delighted to have received the QFSM, there is no better satisfaction than knowing that the success of our work is because of the fantastic efforts of all staff right across Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.
“Each and every day they are making a difference to the lives of the most vulnerable people in our community.”
Patricia Chrimes, from Northwich, has been honoured for her work as Chair of Royal British Legion Women’s Section and for services to Ex-Service Personnel.
And Phil Redmond, the well-know TV and film director originally from Liverpool but living in Cheshire, has been honoured for services to Broadcasting and Arts in the Regions.
The honours would have been bestowed in April, to coincide with Queen Elizabeth II’s birthday. But they were delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
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