Morecambe champion of cats to receive British Empire Medal in special ceremony this week

Monday, 16 September 2024 14:15

A woman from Morecambe who helps find homes for stray, injured and unwanted cats will receive the British Empire Medal later this week.

Eileen Evans from the Lancaster and Morecambe Cat Rescue charity was awarded a British Empire Medal for services to the protection of cats in Lancashire, in the King's Birthday Honours List in June.

Eileen, who has been working to help cats for around 20 years, is co-ordinator and trustee of the charity, which has a shop in Pedder Street in Morecambe.

On Friday (September 20), the historic setting of Lancaster Castle will host a prestigious Honours ceremony, where Eileen and other recipients will be presented with their medals.

In the magnificent Shire Hall, the Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Mrs Amanda Parker, will be presenting them on behalf of His Majesty The King to recipients from Lancashire commended in the recent Birthday Honours List for services to their local community.

Mrs Parker said: "It is a pleasure to present these British Empire Medals on behalf of His Majesty King Charles to so many people from Lancashire, in recognition of their outstanding service and contribution to our county."

Joining Mrs Parker and the Constable of the Castle, Mrs Pam Barker, on the evening will be the Chairman of Lancashire County Council, Tim Ashton; the High Sheriff of Lancashire, Mrs Helen Bingley, and the new Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Brigadier (Retd) Peter Rafferty, as well as a number of Deputy Lieutenants from across the county.

The Lancaster and Morecambe Cat Rescue shop opened in Morecambe in 2022 and Eileen spoke to Beyond Radio then about the charity and their work.

The BEM rewards an achievement or contribution of a 'hands-on' service to the community in a local geographical area.

This might take the form of sustained commitment in support of local charitable and/or voluntary activity, or innovative work that has delivered real impact.

At all levels, awards illuminate areas of dedicated service which merit public recognition.