Following the publication of the New Year’s Honours list, Andrew Stephenson, MP for Pendle, is encouraging local residents to nominate local people of outstanding merit.
This year’s recipients include Barrowford resident John Clough who joins his wife Penny (who was honoured a few years ago) in receiving an MBE for his tireless campaigning on behalf of victims of domestic abuse. Melanie Goodship from Colne is also recognised with an MBE. Melanie’s son James tragically drowned in Lake Burwain in 2014 and since then she has worked tirelessly to educate young people on the danger of open water.
In recent years former Pendle resident Penelope Keith, star of hit television comedy series “The Good Life” and “To The Manor Born”, was made a Dame and Barrowford campaigning mother Penny Clough MBE, Colne Olympic cyclist Steven Burke MBE and former Laneshaw Bridge Head teacher Eileen Bleasdale OBE were all recognised by the system.
The honours system recognises people of outstanding merit, and those who have committed themselves to service to the nation. It's been around for centuries, but it was a closed system for many years. Only since 1993 has everybody been free to nominate.
I frequently get approached by residents asking how to nominate someone for an honour and I am happy to help people with the process. Anyone can be nominated, but only exceptional people are honoured. Achievement comes in many forms but honours committees are looking for someone who has made a difference in their field of work or community. Honours can be awarded for all sorts of work - paid or unpaid - but your nominee must still be involved in the activity for which they are nominated.
To nominate someone for an Honour you can download the forms and guidance notes via the Cabinet Office website or contact Andrew’s office, whose staff will be happy to help.
