A SOUTH Worcestershire man who has worked tirelessly for the community and on fund-raising products for more than 50 years has been awarded an MBE in The Queen’s New Year’s Honours List.
Richard Campbell is a member of the Droitwich Salvation Army and has been handed the accolade for services to the community in the West Midlands.
Richard, who is 74 in April, was born and grew up in Kidderminster, joining the Salvation Army when he was just eight.
He moved to Cradley Heath in 1968 when he married wife Pauline and the pair, who have a son called Ian, went on to live in Malvern for three years and they have now been in Droitwich for the past five years.
In each of the areas, Richard joined the local Salvation Army branch and continued with his fund-raising and charity events organising.
In total he has worked on community projects for more than 50 years and has helped raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for local and national charities, including funding refurbishments to hostels (now life houses).
Among his favourite events have been three concerts at Birmingham Symphony Hall, including one which featured an appearance by brave Falklands veteran Simon Weston.
He has also organised concerts at Dudley Town Hall and Worcester Cathedral.
After being told about the award Richard said: “I was absolutely amazed – it was a nice surprise at the end of a difficult year for everyone.
“A lifelong friend of mine nominated me and I want to thank him for thinking of me.
“I have had so many people contact me since it was made public.”
Richard worked in construction management and then went onto teach children with special needs and disadvantaged adults, helping some who had been in danger of ending up in custody, turn their lives around.
He added: “I have just wanted to help out all the communities I’ve lived in – it has all been very rewarding.”
A Droitwich Salvation Army spokesperson said: “Richard I know doesn’t do what he does for recognition or limelight but it is wonderful that he has received this award.
“Well done and congratulations and love from us all.”
