Congratulations to our tenant Joan Musker.

Joan has been honoured with a British Empire Medal (BEM) during a special ceremony at Preston Town Hall.

The award was announced earlier this year as part of the Kings New Year’s Honours List 2023.

As chairperson of Wade Hall Community Association, Joan has worked on numerous projects to support local communities, from organising and distributing Christmas hampers, to running community events and launching the Wade Hall community shop. 

This award is a fitting recognition of Joan’s hard work and dedication to the local community over the past three decades.

Joan also attended the official royal party at Buckingham Palace Garden several days after the King’s Coronation.

Joan said: “I was in shock and didn’t believe it at first. It is a great honour to be recognised. I was really looking forward to going to London as I have never been before. I had a fantastic time and will cherish the experience forever.

“When I went to the garden party, everyone was lovely. Sophie of Wessex spoke to us, asking if we had a lovely day and I saw Prince Edward. King Charles, Princess Anne, Prince William and Princess Kate. When I spoke to the other volunteers, they were like me – they never expected to receive a letter.

“I also enjoyed receiving my medal from The Lord Shuttleworth at Preston Town Hall (pictured top left). There was seven of us from Lancashire and I was the only woman.

"It was lovely being able to celebrate with people who have supported and nominated me: Sam Beattie, Progress Involvement Officer, Deborah and Barbara from Leyland in Bloom, Keith from Leyland Memories, Wade Hall Community Association volunteer Pat, and Councillor Jane Bell.”

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