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British Empire Medals presented

Published: 12/05/2016

British Empire Medals have been presented to two people from Flintshire and Denbighshire, both recognised for their outstanding contributions to the area – and who, between them, have contributed over 55 years in voluntary service. Elizabeth Hewitt from Flintshire was awarded her medal for the time she has devoted to thousands of children in her care. In her role as school governor she has helped to guide the progress of pupils in two primary schools and assisted the amalgamation of the two schools over the past year. She has been involved at grassroots level, with children, at playgroup, school, guides and the church. As a guide leader, she ran the weekly sessions as Captain, participating in many trips and encouraging the guides in community activities. She has run Little Rascals out of school club for 20 years and is highly thought of by parents and children. Her work with the club has been recognised by the inspecting body CSSIW. She also devotes time as a pastoral assistant in the community, she visits people who are ill and sits with those who are housebound as well as running a monthly Soup and Pudding Lunch at St Deniol’s Church. As a member of Mothers Union she is a perfect ambassador. She has time for people, and would not hesitate to help out others at any time of the day or night - she is loved and respected by all who know her. Edward Watkin Evans from Denbighshire was awarded a British Empire Medal for voluntary and charitable services. Experiences in his younger days in the Merchant Navy during the 1930s and 1940s made him determined to help others, something he has achieved to great effect during the past 35 years of selfless voluntary services. Mr Evans joined the Royal British Legion in 1980 in his local Ruthin and District Branch, first as a poppy collector and, in 1984 the Branch Poppy Organiser (a post he held until 2012). During this period, the Poppy Appeal grew from £7519 to £15358. In 2003, in addition to his role in Ruthin, he became the North Wales District Poppy Appeal Organiser. Since then, due to his enthusiasm, determination and drive, the District Poppy Appeal has increased from £230.000 to in excess of £430,000 last year. Throughout his life, Ted has enjoyed helping others of all ages and, at the advanced age of 93 years, continues to serve his local community. The ceremony was held recently at Bodelwydden Castle and presenting the medals the Lord Lieutenant of Clwyd, Henry George Fetherstonhaugh, Esq, OBE, said: ““The ceremony was a very special occasion and it was a great pleasure to present the British Empire Medal to these very deserving recipients. To have completed over 55 years of voluntary service between them is a staggering achievement. I would like to congratulate them both and thank them for their considerable contribution to their communities.” Both recipients attended with family members and the Lord Lieutenant was accompanied by the Vice Lieutenant Lloyd Fitzhough and A Lieutenant Cadet, Kara Morris.