Chairman of Hospital Friends' awarded a BEM in the New Year Honours
by Pareeta Nayee
British Empire Medal, Friends' of East Surrey Hospital, Richard Burford, Surrey
Richard Burford, 79, from Reigate, chairman of the Friends' of East Surrey Hospital has been awarded a BEM (British Empire Medal) in the New Year Honours for services to veterans and the community in Surrey.
This recognition comes after many years volunteering that, as well as some 14 years as chairman for the Friends' of East Surrey Hospital, has included 28 years as chairman for the Federation of Old Comrades Association; 15 years with SSAFA, The Armed Forces Charity, the oldest military charity, alongside 23 years with The Honourable Artillery Company, a Territorial Army unit, where he rose through the ranks to become a Colonel.
Richard Burford BEM, said: "It is a huge privilege and honour to be recognised in this way. I am very proud of the really wonderful Friends' volunteers who give so much of their time freely to support the patients, visitors and staff at East Surrey Hospital and my thanks goes to them as I receive this special award."
Michael Wilson CBE, chief executive, Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust (SASH) who run East Surrey Hospital, said: "My congratulations go to Richard; this honour is a well-deserved recognition of Richard's commitment and generosity to supporting everyone at East Surrey Hospital as well as his other community commitments too.
"Under Richard's leadership, The Friends' of East Surrey Hospital provide generous donations to fund additional equipment and resources that helps enhance the specialist care provided by SASH clinicians at East Surrey Hospital."