A DORSET man, awarded the Medal of the Order of The British Empire (BEM) in the 2020 New Years Honours List, has finally received his medal.

Derek Paul Radley, of Broadstone, was given a BEM for services to the community of Dorset, with his volunteering work at the local Victim Support School’s Project and the Poole-based Green Island Holiday Trust.

Mr Radley was presented with the award during a ceremony held at the home of the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Mr Angus Cambell on Tuesday, October 19.

After a delay of 22 months caused by the pandemic, Mr Radley said: “Whilst its been frustrating having to wait so long, it is still a recognition of the work I have done and reflects the benefits that the students have received."

A volunteer with Victim Support and a previous president of Wimborne Rotary, Mr Radley has shown great dedication to the School’s Project, aimed at sixth form students throughout the county.

He concentrates on their safety and gives crime prevention advice to students who may be leaving home for the first time, especially when they intend to continue with further education.

He has been working with schools in the Dorset area for the past 11 years and estimates that as many as 30,000 students have benefitted from his presentations.

His volunteer work with the Green Island Holiday Trust includes a one-week residential holiday for people with disabilities at Holton Lea and he gives talks to local groups on his experiences.