MBE for 'smashing' charity worker

Reporter: Laura Wild
Date online: 05 January 2010

A Rochdale fundraiser who has worked tirelessly over the last 30 years has said he is ‘overwhelmed’ to be in named in the Queen’s New Year Honours list.

Ken Davies, has been awarded the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for services to charity in Rochdale.

Mr Davies told Rochdale Online how overwhelmed he was to receive the award, he said: “Getting the phone call to say I would be on the list knocked me back a bit, it was overwhelming news and I am so very pleased.”

Mr Davies started fundraising in the 1970s and it has been something he has thoroughly enjoyed doing over the years. He said: “Raising money is something I really enjoy and I enjoy doing it in a friendly manner.

“I must thank my wife Joan for all her support over the last 30 years and my sons Iain and Alun. My family and friends have backed me all the way with everything I have done. The support I have had over the years has been brilliant.”

Over the years, Mr Davies has worked with the Rochdale Masons, Rotary charities, the Mayors charity appeal and cancer charities throughout the borough, including Springhill Hospice where he later became Fundraising Director.

Chief Executive of Springhill Hospice, Christine Webb, said: “Hospice staff, trustees and volunteers were delighted to hear the news of Ken’s award.  He had been a very successful fundraiser for Springhill Hospice, both paid and in a voluntary capacity for many, many years and for many other charities in the town. 

“Anyone who knows Ken will have seen the enthusiasm and commitment he has for helping others in our community and very importantly how good he is at it!  He is a kind and generous person, who spends a great deal of his time helping many people to raise funds.”
 
“The MBE is a right and proper accolade to this smashing man and we send our very best wishes to him, Joan and his family at this very exciting time.”

In 2006, Mr Davies was made ‘Man of Rochdale’ for all his efforts in working with local charities.