David is '˜very humbled and proud' after being awarded a British Empire Medal

David Lomas, 79, has been awarded a British Empire Medal for his services to the community in Gainsborough.

As founder of the John Coupland Hospital Charities Committee (JCH) and now serving Life President, he has been instrumental in leading the committee from strength-to-strength.

Since 2003 he raised funds to enable the hospital to purchase a Phlebotomy chair, visual assessment equipment, exercise bikes in addition to televisions and video equipment for their patients.

He is also Branch President of the Royal British Legion and is the leader of the Royal British Legion in the region.

He is heavily involved in the annual Poppy Appeal and remains at the forefront of all fundraising efforts and has orchestrated many events such as concerts, tea dances, raffles and quiz nights.

Due to his fundraising efforts, the Royal British Legion have been able to successfully complete the War Memorial Honour Roll.

He has been involved in the collection of information necessary, to ensure the accuracy of Roll of Honour, covering the period of 1914 to date.

He has also served as a school governor and was Chair of Governors for Benjamin Adlard School for eight years.

David said: “I am very humbled by this but I am also very proud at the same time.

“I got the first indication from the Cabinet Office in May last year but I was not allowed to tell anyone about it.

“I was put forward as a recommendation to the Queen and it has now been confirmed.

“I have had an invitation from the Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire to attend a medal presentation but I don’t know when that will be.

“I have also been invited to a garden party at Buckinghamshire Palace.”