A trio of Isle of Wight residents have been recognised in this year’s New Year’s Honours List.
The honours system demonstrates the breadth of service given by people from all different backgrounds across the UK. In total, 1,148 people have received an award in this year’s list.
Here on the Isle of Wight 3 people have been confirmed as receiving an honour. They are:
• Bryan Flawell, a retained firefighter at East Cowes and a prison officer at HMP Isle of Wight, who has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to HM Prison Service and the local community.
• Geoffrey John Banks, the former Mayor of Cowes, who has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for his services to the community of Cowes.
• Terence John Blunden who has also been awarded a BEM or his services to the community of Newport.
In addition, wildlife journalist Chris Packham – who is often seen on the Island and has connections with the Isle of Wight Zoo – is to receive a CBE.
Andy Bowers, Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Hampshire Fire Service – which includes the Isle of Wight – has been awarded the Queen’s Fire Service Medal.
