AN OMBERSLEY man has received a British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for undertaking more than 25 years of charity work in Worcestershire.
Philip Sawyer, 80, will be given the prestigious award for his commitment to the Six Masters’ Charity.
He first became one of the six masters and a Governor of the Royal Grammar School, in Worcester, in 1974 before being named the chairman of the governing body in 1978.
The charity, founded in 1561, is dedicated to maintaining the Six Masters’ Almshouses which offer relief to Worcester residents in need of help and further education.
He also played an integral part in overseeing the school’s transition from a public to independent body.
It all began when Worcestershire County Council decided it wanted the school to become a college for students over 16. But, Mr Sawyer and the other governors battled against this and won the right to become an independent school in 1984.
Although he resigned as chairman he still remains a trustee and one of the six masters.
Philip has also been honoured for his lifetime support to other Worcestershire associations including the Three Choirs Festival, Worcester Ruby Football Club, the Worcester District Health Authority, Clothiers Company and Ombersley Memorial Hall.
When he was told about the award Mr Sawyer said he really did not expect it but was very surprised and also very honoured.
In a case study, released by the Cabinet Office, it said Philip’s leadership and attention to what he saw as his civic duty, had been an inspiration to others within the region’s voluntary sector.
