Honours are so well deserved

A huge congratulations go to three Wearsiders – a tireless community volunteer, a champion of the region’s naval cadets and reserves and a talented glass artist – who have been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list. Peter Blyth and Brian Jones are made MBEs, while Maureen Wallwork receives the BEM. Peter has been honoured “For services to the Reserve Forces and Cadets on Tyneside”. Peter, who is 68, said he is overwhelmed to have been nominated. Brian Jones has been honoured “For services to Glassblowing”. “His contribution to glass art is invaluable,” the citation says. Brian said: “I was completely taken aback. “I am quite chuffed, to be honest. It was totally unexpected, but it is great.” Maureen Wallwork has been recognised “For services to the community in Washington, Tyne and Wear’” “She is a tireless voluntary worker who has helped many individuals and organisations with compassion,” reads the citation. For many years she volunteered with the AGE UK charity where she supported lunch clubs. She has also been involved with dementia groups. “I could not believe it,” said Maureen, who is a community champion at Asda’s Washington store. “It was not something I expected.” Unexpected it may be, but (as far as all three of them are concerned) – very much deserved! Sometimes people raise an eyebrow or two when it comes to some of the people who are given honours in these lists, but all three of our local recipients thoroughly deserve to be recognised and honoured by Her Majesty.