KIND-HEARTED Silhillians are set to be handed their British Empire Medals (BEMs) at a special ceremony.
The seven Solihull recipients of this and last year’s BEM will receive their awards from the West Midlands Lord-Lieutenant, John Crabtree OBE on September 15 at the University of Birmingham.
Some have gone to extraordinary lengths and given countless years to volunteering, others have travelled emotional journeys that have driven them to greater achievements.
Kevin Johns has been handed the award for his dedication to charity.
Over the years the Prime Accountancy employee has cycled to all 62 gold post boxes in the UK and posted a cheque at each one for £250 for Macmillan Cancer.
He also raised £15,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital on his pedals, paddles and peaks.
He also coaches under 13’s rugby and has a role at Solihull BID.
Albert Jolly has been handed the accolade for his role at Solihull Lions.
He has overcome red tape to place defibrillators in local places to help save lives, helped the elderly and raised £100,000 to help charities through the Lions who have recognised his achievements with the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship Award.
He also volunteers at the Solihull Hospital Heart Rehabilitation Unit.
Joan Lloyd Friends of Woodland Cemetery in 2005 in memory of her daughter.
Over the past 14 years she has helped families through bereavement and created a tranquil place to reflect on loved ones as well as fundraising for projects including The Babies and Children’s Garden, The Forces Memorial and Garden , new entrance gates and holds special ceremonies of remembrance.
Michael Naylor has been awarded with a BEM for his dedication to Solihull Hospital Cardiac Gym Club over the past 25 years.
After he experienced a cardiac episode he decided to help others like him through their rehabilitation .
He actively supports the Club on many levels and has set up social events even in his home and is now the Committee Chair and acts as a vital ‘go-between’ the hospital staff and club members to ensure the club is meeting all their needs.
Also getting the award are Kim Beck, Maureen Carroll, Ann Gumery and John Sidebotham.
Mr Crabtree said during the pandemic many people across the region have shown kindness and made huge efforts to support those in need.
He added: “The West Midlands is celebrating a record number of BEM recipients this year.
“Each one thoroughly deserves this Honour for their outstanding community involvement. I am thrilled to be meeting them at the Investiture and acknowledging all they do.”
