Ian Sharp, from Market Drayton, received his award from Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal, after being named in the New Year Honours list following 45 years of volunteering with the Boys’ Brigade.
In honour of his tireless voluntary work, Mr Sharp was invited to attend Buckingham Palace on April 19, where he was joined by his wife Annette, and his two sons, Daniel and Craig. “I was extremely nervous throughout the day and being one of the last in the morning to receive the MBE, my nerves ramped up with each person who collected theirs before me, but the Princess Royal immediately put me at ease.
“I know how proud both he and my mother Josie would be of me following in dad’s footsteps by getting this award. It was an incredible day, and I was so glad I was able to share it with my wife, my children and grandchildren.”