A host of people from across Caerphilly County Borough have been honoured in this year’s Queen’s birthday honours list.
Blackwood businessman Colin Brace, 91, was awarded an OBE in recognition of his life’s work at Brace’s Bakery, which he joined in 1946.
The company was established in 1902 by Mr Brace’s grandfather George Brace.
Mr Brace took control of the business in 1979, when it was transferred from his father. The firm is now a major supplier employing over 300 people.
Mr Brace said he was delighted to have been chosen for honour and that his family were immensely proud.
He said: “I have worked with so many good people and continue to do so today, it makes my role as Chairman somewhat easier knowing I have such a dedicated and loyal workforce behind me. I would like to thank everyone past and present.”
Also honoured was former Gwent Police Chief Superintendent Andy Adams who was handed an MBE for services to law enforcement and public protection.
Mr Adams, 51, began his career in Blackwood 30 years ago and retired from the force in December last year.
Christine White, 67, was awarded the British Empire Medal for her voluntary service with Blackwood-based charity Cancercareline, which she founded 17 years ago.
Professor Michael Harmer, of Caerphilly, is chairman of the Welsh Health Specialised Services Committee and has received a CBE for services to healthcare.
Over a long and distinguished career, Professor Harmer has held a number of senior posts in the NHS in Wales.
He is also currently the chairman of Wales’ National Clinical Forum, set up by the Welsh Government 18 months ago to offer health boards expert advice on plans to change some of the services they provide.
A graduate in 1974 of St. Bartholomew’s Hospital Medical School, London, he trained in anaesthesia in Cardiff, becoming a consultant anaesthetist at the University Hospital of Wales in 1982.
Appointed as a Professor in the Department of Anaesthetics and Intensive Care Medicine in 1997, he has also served on the Council of the Royal College of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland, and has previously served as deputy chief medical officer for Wales.