Lord-Lieutenant Simon Boyle, David Curtis, Mayors Consort Valentina Carter
Three residents from Caerphilly County Borough have been presented with the British Empire Medal for outstanding services to the community, after receiving the honours in The Queen’s New Year’s Honours list.
The trio were presented with their honours by The Queen’s representative for the County of Gwent, the Lord-Lieutenant Simon Boyle.
David Curtis, from Oakdale, received the honour for voluntary and charitable services after being a member of the Pontllanfraith Rotary club for more than 25 years.
During his lengthy service Mr Curtis has been an advocate for youth services and District Governor for the Rotary.
He has raised funds for awareness for polio eradication across the world and visited India to see how the money was being spent.
John Geraint Evans, from Caerphilly, received the honour for his services to music and charity.
Mr Evans has had an impressive musical career and in 1971 he became conductor and musical director of Aber Valley Male Voice Choir.
Under his leadership the choir has grown to an impressive 55 members who regularly perform locally and nationally and tour extensively abroad in countries such as France, Germany and Canada.
Many of the choir’s concerts have raised extensive funds for charities such as Marie Curie Cancer Care, The British Legion Poppy Appeal, schools and churches. Rita Evans of Abercarn was honoured for her voluntary services.
In 2010 Ms Evans was chair of Newbridge and District Cancer Research Committee. She helped to set up a community café in Abercarn and was a part of the committee leading the restoration works of Newbridge Memo. In 2013 she was recognised as Supreme Volunteer of the Year by Caerphilly County Borough Council.
Lord-Lieutenant Mr. Simon Boyle said: “The three individuals honoured have demonstrated a tremendous record of service.
“All contributing in very different ways, they have each achieved a huge amount for their communities.
“I am delighted to be here on behalf of The Queen to present such well deserved honours.”
Cllr David Carter, Mayor of Caerphilly County Borough Council, said: “I am so privileged to welcome David, Geraint and Rita to the council chamber to receive honours for all of the fantastic work they have done and continue to do for our communities.
“It is important that the hard work and dedication of these individuals is recognised and celebrated.”