New Year Honours 2026 – British Empire Medal Investiture

Cambridgeshire recipients from the New Year Honours received their BEM Medals at Great St Mary’s University Church, Cambridge on Thursday 26 March 2026.

Mrs Julie Spence OBE CStJ QPM, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire awarded a British Empire Medal to Mr David Toop BEM for services to the community in Whittlesford, Cambridgeshire and awarded an honorary British Empire Medal to Mrs Michele Upton BEM for services to patient safety in maternity and neonatal service.

Images by Richard Marsham

Prior to the BEM investiture, five organisations attended a special presentation in recognition for their Voluntary Service in Cambridgeshire. The Lord-Lieutenant formally presented each organisation with her ‘Highly Commended’ Lord-Lieutenant Certificates, celebrating the exceptional contributions they have made to their communities.

Images by Richard Marsham

Coton Loves Pollinators

For their work within the community to inspire pollinator‑friendly action, raise awareness, engage volunteers and create a connected network of biodiverse habitats across Cambridgeshire.

Latvian Community Association

For their work within the Peterborough community to promote social inclusion by providing safe, welcoming spaces, diverse creative and wellbeing activities that bring people together and build lasting connections.

Power2Inspire

For their work within the community to provide inclusive sporting opportunities for disabled and non‑disabled participants, engage children through accessible school sports and deliver education that promotes understanding and integration.

St Ives Dementia Community Group

For their work within the community to support people living with dementia and their carers through inclusive activities, regular events and trips and the dedicated passion of volunteers who ensure everyone feels understood, respected and supported.

Sew Positive

For their work within the community to support socially excluded people through free sewing workshops, volunteer‑led groups, activities and trips, dedicated projects for Ukrainian refugees and wellbeing events delivered in collaboration with local businesses.