Sunday School teacher Dorothy is best of British
A SWYTHAMLEY resident has been presented with the British Empire Medal for services to the community of the Dane Valley.
It was back in June when the postman delivered Dorothy Kay a letter from the Cabinet Office informing her that she had been awarded the British Empire Medal in The Queen’s Birthday Honours.
In the ensuing six months, Mrs Kay received a number of requests for interviews, but the culmination came when, at a formal ceremony in the Council Chamber at Stafford County Buildings, Ian Dudson, Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire formally presented Mrs Kay and six other Staffordshire residents with their medals.
The ceremony proved to be a sparkling occasion and the formalities of the ceremony were followed by an enjoyable reception.
However, that was not entirely the end of Mrs Kay’s day. There is still an invitation from Her Majesty The Queen to attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace later this year.
Mrs Kay, 80, has been a Sunday school teacher for 60 years and worked at Westwood First School in Leek as a secretary for 19 years.
She was also a first responder for eight years and is still the assistant treasurer of her local group.
During her life she has also served as the treasurer for a number of years for the former Cheddleton, St Edward’s Hospital Friends who helped patients who had no relatives. She has also been a member of the Women’s Institute and has been chairman of three county committees . Forty years ago she started the Danebridge Chapel Choir which is still going strong.
Along with her husband John they have fostered eight children long term. Mrs Kay has also worked in the civil defence for eight years.
Speaking to the Post & Times, Mrs Kay said: “I could not believe it when I got the news. It is just amazing. There are a lot of people doing good things, but they just get on with it.”
Michael Greatorex, chairman of Staffordshire County Council said: “It was a great privilege for me to host this presentation and honour another seven people from Staffordshire who have done so much for our communities. They have all made invaluable contributions in their services and it is a pleasure to see them receive such prestigious recognition from Her Majesty for their hard work given over many years.”
Ian Dudson, Lord-lieutenant of Staffordshire added: “The British Empire Medal is now fully re-established as a significant part of our Honours system, often uniquely recognising voluntary contributions at a very local community level. I am delighted that seven local people have been recognised in the birthday honours list with this award, for their wonderful contributions within Staffordshire and I am privileged to have presented their medals on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen.”