It’s an honour, your majesty

Richard Saunders

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A KEEN runner who has dedicated his career to making sport more widely available has been awarded an MBE.

Richard Saunders (60), the former chief executive of Greatersport, said he was “thrilled and humbled” to receive the accolade for services to grassroots sport in the North West.

The Greenfield father of two now works for the County Sports Partnership Network, a national sports charity.

He said: “I have worked with a lot of great people and have been fortunate to have worked in an area I truly love and believe in so to get this recognition feels brilliant. My family and friends are thrilled for me.”

Mr Saunders, who is a member of Saddleworth Fell Runners, was head of sport for Oldham Council until 1999.

Also receiving an MBE is former prison officer Brian Lord (58) from Shaw for services to the prison service. Mr Lord, who says he is “chuffed” by the accolade, served as branch secretary for the Prison Officers Association before retiring in February after 35 years at HMP Manchester.

He said: “I really enjoyed my job.”