A longstanding British Red Cross volunteer from Cumbria who helped those affected by Storm Desmond has been recognised in the Queen’s New Year Honours.
David Taylor from Holme – who’s volunteered for the Red Cross for over 25 years – will receive a British Empire Medal (BEM) for his services to volunteering.
David was one of many Red Cross volunteers and staff who helped hundreds of people during and after Storm Desmond in December 2015, setting up rest centres across Cumbria to help those who had to leave their homes, and responding to medical emergencies alongside the ambulance service.
He carried out a four-day ‘top-to-toe’ challenge, cycling, canoeing, walking, swimming, kayaking and sailing across Cumbria, on the first anniversary of Storm Desmond – which raised over £5000 for the Red Cross’ emergency response in Cumbria (ERiC) team.
Commenting on the news, David said: “I’m both humbled and honoured to hear the news that I’ve been recognised for my services to the Red Cross in such a significant way.
“I work as part of an incredibly hard-working team of emergency response volunteers both here in Cumbria and across the country who are committed to doing all they can to help those in crisis. Receiving this honour is also a testament to my colleagues within the Red Cross.”
British Red Cross head of crisis response Simon Lewis said: “The work of our volunteers nationwide is hugely important to our organisation in delivering invaluable support to those in crisis. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to respond to floods such as those caused by Storm Desmond, or other emergencies.
“We’re delighted to see David recognised for his efforts as a key member of our emergency response team, and we’d like to take this opportunity to thank him for his tireless work as a Red Cross volunteer.”
