A 'caring' and 'dedicated' sea cadet leader and a man who's been described as a 'lifeline' for Isle of Wight libraries are among the Islanders to be recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours.
Her Majesty's list has been published ahead of the Platinum Jubilee weekend.
64-year-old Robert Jones, from Rookley, has been given a British Empire Medal — or BEM — for his services to public libraries.
In his role as Library Service Manager for the Isle of Wight Council, Robert has helped to secure the future of all 11 libraries.
Robert Jones.
He has redeveloped how services are delivered on the Island and it's estimated he's saved the council more than £60 million over six years.
Speaking to Isle of Wight Radio, Robert said his achievements wouldn't have been possible without his colleagues:
"One of the most important things is my team is just incredible. Without them none of this would’ve been possible. They never cease to be inspiring in what they do. They are awesome."
He said receiving a letter from the Cabinet Office was a "total surprise".
"[My reaction] was disbelief at first. You're thinking who has done this. Who has nominated me? Which is very sweet and kind of them. It's really quite exciting. It's also difficult because you're not allowed to tell anyone!"
Margaret Beacham.
Also receiving a BEM is Margaret Beacham, from Ryde.
As chair of Ryde Sea Cadets, the 58-year-old has played a pivotal role in bringing together young people on the Island.
She balances the voluntary role alongside her job as a legal assistant, something she says has been "challenging" but "great fun".
As well as co-ordinating fundraising events to raise money to rejuvenate the unit's premises, Margaret has also negotiated and delivered a boating facility at Island Harbour, allowing cadets easy access to the River Medina.
She told Isle of Wight Radio she was "humbled and over the moon" with her medal:
"I went home and had a letter from the Cabinet Office. I started trembling thinking 'oh no what have I done'! I opened up the letter and was sworn to secrecy. It's been very difficult not to spill the beans and not to want to tell people close to me.
"I'm guessing for the hours I've put in for this very worthwhile charity, I've been recognised which has just humbled me beyond anything really. It's a team — it's a team effort."
Receiving an MBE — Member of the order of the British Empire — is Jamie Brenchley, the Housing Needs Manager at the Isle of Wight Council.
He has been recognised for services to homeless people, particularly during Covid-19.
Chief Fire Officer for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, Neil Odin, is also on the list.
He has been awarded the Queen's Fire Service Medal for his distinguished service.
Neil Odin
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