The Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear has presented British Empire Medals to three local people who have made a real difference in their communities and beyond.
Bill Hall, Ryan Riley and Marguerite Ruffles were named in the 2026 New Year Honours list and received their medals from the King's representative, Lord-Lieutenant Ms Lucy Winskell OBE, at a special ceremony held today at Gateshead Civic Centre.
Bill Hall, who lives in Washington, was recognised for services to the army veterans community. Having served as a solder with the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers during the 1960s, Bill went on to found the All Ranks Club, re-connecting more than 400 veterans. He visits and counsels those in need, tackling loneliness and arranging the group's attendance at remembrance events. In addition, Bill finds time to raise funds for other organisations including Daft as a Brush, Macmillan and St Oswald's Hospice.
Cook and author Ryan Riley from Blaydon has improved countless lives by helping people rediscover their sense of taste after illnesses such as cancer and Covid-19. Inspired by his experience of seeing his mother lose her sense of taste following chemotherapy, he founded Life Kitchen. The not-for-profit cookery school develops and teaches recipes that can be enjoyed by those with little or no sense of taste, making the recipes and techniques available through free books and pamphlets.
Marguerite Ruffles has volunteered tirelessly with the Royal Voluntary Service for many years, delivering books and audiobooks to people who are unable to access their local library. Alongside the deliveries, Marguerite, from Rowlands Gill, also brings companionship, reassurance and much-needed social connection to the doorsteps of people at risk of isolation. She goes above and beyond for those she supports, even when faced with health issues of her own.
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."
The British honours system recognises people who have made outstanding achievements or who have given exceptional service to their community. Anyone can be nominated, and the process is open to members of the public who wish to recognise someone who has gone above and beyond in their work or voluntary activities.
Nominations can be made through the UK Government website, by completing a form that asks for details about the nominee's achievements and how they have made a difference.
Nominations can be submitted at any time of year and are considered for inclusion in future honours lists. Once submitted, they are reviewed by specialist committees and, if successful, recommendations are put forward to the Prime Minister and approved by His Majesty The King.
Residents of Gateshead and across the region are encouraged to consider nominating individuals whose dedication and service might otherwise go unrecognised, ensuring that local heroes receive the national acknowledgement they deserve.
Pictured L-R: The Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear Ms Lucy Winskill OBE, Marguerite Ruffles, Ryan Riley, Mayor of Gateshead Councillor Andrea Graham and Bill Hall
