Honours Winners In Suffolk
The stories behind why people in Suffolk have received an honour.
Neville Pettitt
Dedicated Suffolk cyclist Neville Pettitt was awarded the British Empire Medal after 20 years teaching hundreds of children to ride a bike.
Neville, the chairman of West Suffolk Wheelers, from Bury St Edmunds, was honoured for services to cycling and youth participation. He got involved with cycling and the Wheelers when his son joined the club in 1993, which had around 40 members.
He realised there were not many young members, and started teaching children to ride bikes.
Since then he has not looked back, with the club ranks increasing, his cycling lessons still going strong.
Des Pawson
Knot tier and rope maker Des Pawson was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the Queen's Birthday Honours.
Des, from Ipswich, is one of the best-known knot tiers alive and has a worldwide following. His skills have been used by TV for programmes such as Hornblower and he has helped the film Pirates of the Caribbean. One of a dying breed of traditional craftsmen, he receives his award for services to the rope industry.
In 1980, Des set up his own company called Footrope Knots, and in 1982 he co-founded the International Guild of Knot Tiers to help knot enthusiasts keep traditions alive and promote the art, craft and science of knotting, its study and practice.
Jo Copsey
Town pastor volunteer Jo Copsey was awarded the British Empire Medal for her services to policing and community safety in the town.
Jo has spent many years patrolled the night time streets of Bury St Edmunds to support vulnerable people as they leave restaurants and bars.
Jo provides a vital service to individuals who are often unwell or in vulnerable situations. Jo was also commended for her role in supporting the night-time economy collaborating with the police, partners and community of Bury St Edmunds.
In the nomination for her honour, the grandmother of four was praised for recruiting and training other volunteers. She now co-ordinates 50 volunteers and was credited for ensuring the scheme has a long-term and financially secure future.
Doctor Barbara Gale
Barbara, the Chief Executive of St Nicholas Hospice Care, was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in recognition of her contribution to hospice care, supporting people living as carers or coping with dying and bereavement.
Barbara has been involved in hospice care for more than 30 years, with more than 10 years as the chief executive of the hospice in west Suffolk. It plays a vital role in supporting people at difficult times in their lives.
When she received the honour, she thanked the team of 180 staff, 650 volunteers, trustees and family for all their support.
