36 people from across the West Midlands have been named in The Queen’s Birthday Honours List, including 2 CBE’s, 8 OBE’s, 13 MBE’s and 13 people who are awarded a British Empire Medal.

Each year The Queen recognises the extraordinary achievements of people from all walks of life and all ages, within our communities. In addition to these people who really make a difference to the lives of those around them, this year’s list also includes special mention of those who went above and beyond in supporting each other during the Covid-19 pandemic.

This year’s recipients, who have made a significant contribution, made a positive impact and delivered significant outcomes, come from all across the West Midlands including twelve from Birmingham, six people in Dudley and four in Sandwell. Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, John Crabtree OBE said:

“Making up the fabric of the West Midlands are some amazing people whose stamina, ambitions and work quietly deliver a better, brighter and kinder place. These people with big hearts are often known within their neighbourhoods but fail to gain the wider credit they deserve and never has this been more prevalent than during the recent Covid crisis.  

“This year’s recipients showcase a range of outstanding achievements and provide an insight into the region and the people that make it so great.  We are all very grateful for what they do each and every day and I am absolutely delighted to see so many gain the recognition they deserve in this year’s Birthday Honours.  

Black Country recipients include 38-year-old Oliver Chambers from Amblecote, who has been awarded an MBE for service to the community, having served for 18 years as a trustee and uniformed volunteer with Birmingham Vernon Sea Cadets in Ladywood.

Reanne Evans from Dudley has been awarded an MBE for services to Women's snooker. Reanne is ranked number one on the World Women's Snooker Tour. She has won the World women’s snooker championship record 12 times, with 10 consecutive titles between 2005 and 2014 and further wins in 2016 and 2019.

Paul Birch has been awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the music industry. Paul started two record labels; Revolver Records and Heavy Metal Records, in 1979, and since that time they have signed, released, re-issued and distributed over 5,000 albums for artists including Sister Sledge, The Stone Roses and Leo Sayer.

Rex Williams has also been awarded the British Empire Medal for services to Snooker and Billiards, having become a professional player at the age of 17 in 1951.

And Ceri Denise Davies has also been awarded the British Empire Medal. 30-year-old Ceri is the founder and Managing Director of More Mascots Please CIC and was given the honour for services to People with Disabilities, Disadvantaged and Life Limited Children and their Families. Mr Crabtree added:

“Through the activities of the West Midlands Lieutenancy, I come across many people providing support and giving their time to help others.  Now more than ever, there are so many unsung heroes who deserve to be honoured but they need someone to nominate them.

"I would encourage people from across the region to get involved and think about who is making a difference in your local area so that we can continue to recognise these individuals for the great work they are doing.”  

The individual honours are announced twice a year to mark The Queen’s official birthday in June (but were delayed this year due to the Covid pandemic) and at the end of December - the New Year Honours.  Some 1,200 people are recognised in each list.

Details on how to nominate are found on the West Midlands Lieutenancy website at wmlieutenancy.org.