21 amazing photos of community heroes from the Black Country as they receive their British Empire Medals

It was a day for community heroes who have made the region a richer and kinder place to receive their royal awards.

Six people from Sandwell and Walsall were among 11 recipients to receive their British Empire Medal (BEM) from the Lord-Lieutenant for the West Midlands, Derrick Anderson CBE, at a special ceremony on Thursday at Birmingham Council House.

Kerrie Green and Deborah Lowe from Rowley Regis, Carl Ledbury from Oldbury, Balbir Singh from Smethwick and David Payne and Joan Lockley from Walsall were all awarded the BEM medal for making an active contribution to help others, volunteer their time selflessly and work to support others who may have been vulnerable or suffering.

These photos help to show what was a proud day for each of the recipients.

Kerrie Green - For Services to the Community in Rowley Regis

Sergeant Major Instructor Kerrie Green has served with the Army Cadet Force since 2011 and positively impacted the lives of hundreds of young people in the last 11 years.

Through her dedicated mentor and leadership she has recruited disenfranchised young people and some cadets have become accomplished musicians.

Deborah Lowe - For Services to the Community in Rowley Regis

Deborah is a trained primary school teacher working as a supply teacher and fund-raises to keep the group going, recently raising £6,000. — Deborah Lowe is a trained primary school teacher working as a supply teacher and fund-raises to keep the group going, recently raising £6,000.

In 2002, Deborah formed Youth Onstage and, for more than 20 years, has enabled young people to experience performing in musical theatre. — In 2002, Deborah Lowe formed Youth Onstage and, for more than 20 years, has enabled young people to experience performing in musical theatre.

Carl Ledbury - For Service to the Community in Oldbury

Carl Ledbury qualified as a Paramedic in 1986 and, for more than 40 years, he has been committed to the NHS Ambulance Service.

Apart from carrying out his paramedic duties, Carl Ledbury has dedicated his life to supporting his colleagues and is a qualified Counsellor and has taken up various positions to help others in the service.

Balbir Singh - For Services to the Community in Smethwick

Balbir Singh is one of the most important contributors to the UK’s Asian music scene and is often referred to as the “Godfather of Asian music in the UK. “

He is a world renown Bhangra artist, who has continuously performed and recorded music since 1967, when he formed the Bhujhangy Group with his brother as teenagers.

David Payne - For Services to the Community in Aldridge

David Payne is an active member of the West Bromwich community and is Company Captain of the 14th West Bromwich Boys’ Brigade company.

He has given young people opportunities they never would have had and has taught them commitment and inspired a sense of public duty.

Joan Lockley - For Services to Wildlife

Joan Lockley has dedicated her life to the rescue and rehabilitation of hedgehogs in the last 25 years.

She is the founder of West Midlands Hedgehog Rescue and personally funded a purpose-built hedgehog hospital in her garden.

More than 7,000 injured and orphaned animals have been rescued and, in 2023, she took in 884 hedgehogs alone.

The Lord-Lieutenant for West Midlands, Derrick Anderson, said he believes the recipients reflect the depth and breadth of caring and goodwill that many people provide in the West Midlands.

He said: “The Investiture is a wonderful opportunity to recognise some exceptional people who have dedicated their lives to improving the lives of other people in this region.

"It is heart-warming to know that we are fortunate to have people that give so much and make a big difference to the communities where they live."