Local heroes receive royal honours

Three Tyne and Wear community champions have been recognised for their outstanding service after receiving British Empire Medals at a special ceremony in Gateshead.

Bill Hall, Ryan Riley and Marguerite Ruffles, who were named in the 2026 New Year Honours list, were presented with their medals by the Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear, Ms Lucy Winskell OBE, at Gateshead Civic Centre.

Bill Hall, from Washington, was honoured for his support of the army veterans community. 

A former Royal Northumberland Fusiliers soldier, he founded the All Ranks Club, reconnecting more than 400 veterans while tackling loneliness, supporting remembrance events and raising funds for charities including Daft as a Brush, Macmillan and St Oswald's Hospice.

Blaydon cook and author Ryan Riley was recognised for helping people regain enjoyment of food after illnesses including cancer and Covid-19. 

Inspired by his mother's experience following chemotherapy, he established the not-for-profit cookery school Life Kitchen, which develops recipes and resources for people living with taste loss.

Rowlands Gill resident Marguerite Ruffles received her medal for many years of voluntary service with the Royal Voluntary Service, delivering books and audiobooks to people unable to visit their local library while providing companionship to those at risk of isolation.

The Lord-Lieutenant said: “It is a real pleasure to meet Bill, Ryan and Marguerite here in the heart of the communities that they have served and to present them with British Empire Medals on behalf of His Majesty The King.

“The reasons for their nominations are quite different, but ultimately they share a common thread: a deep commitment to improving the lives of others.

“Their selflessness, compassion and dedication make them truly deserving and inspirational recipients.”

Residents across the region are being encouraged to nominate local people for future honours, recognising those who have made an exceptional contribution through their work or voluntary service.

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.