Somerset 'community champions' awarded the British Empire Medal
They've been handed the award for their 'selfless' work in the community
Three people from Somerset have been handed British Empire Medals for their work in the community.
They were awarded to Andrew Samuel, David Scott and William Mellersh for services during the pandemic, for the countryside and to the sport of badminton.
Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset Mohammed Saddiq presented the medals at a special ceremony held in Taunton.
Mr Saddiq told them: “You have all selflessly volunteered your time to your local communities, going far beyond the extra mile and you are fully deserving of these medals. Congratulations to you all.”
The British Empire Medal (BEM) is awarded on behalf of the Monarch for “hands on” service to the local community over a period of time.
Andrew Samuel from Taunton received his award for services to the community in Somerset, particularly during the COVID 19 pandemic.
He was one of the founding members of the Coronavirus Community Support Group in Taunton and galvanised a group of volunteers to deliver leaflets to 1,000 homes with contact numbers for essential services.
On top of that, he also helped to set up a local not-for-profit community shop close to a retirement village to help people transition out of lockdown life.
David Scott from Williton received his award for services to countryside conservation and heritage.
He started his volunteering life all the way back in 1976, when he began to work as a warden on the Cotswolds, before moving to Somerset when he retired where he then became a Volunteer Ranger with the Quantock Hills AONB.
David also works for the Minehead Woodland Group and volunteers on the West Somerset Railway and has contributed more than 40 years of selfless service to his communities.
William Mellersh from Stanton Drew received his award for services to badminton in the Bristol area after setting-up the Chew Valley Junior Badminton Club back in 2010.
The club currently has around 150 members, many now playing at county or league level. and William has now expanded the remit of the club to offer opportunities to both men and women, enabling families to participate in the sport together.