By Isle of Wight Observer
A well-known former teacher, Terence Blunden, 79, of Halberry Lane, Newport, has been awarded the BEM (British Empire Medal). Terry is a former chairman of the Isle of Wight Sports Council and also secretary of the Isle of Wight branch of the Historical Association.
Terry was born on the Island and trained as a PE and history teacher at King Alfred’s College in Winchester. He taught at the former West Wight Secondary Modern School and then moved on to Ryde High School, where he became careers guidance master. He retired 23 years ago.
Recently, he has been involved as a volunteer for the National Trust at Bembridge Windmill. He is also involved in two Newport charities: the Newport Grammar School Trust and the Worsley Almshouses charity.
Terry has been married to Patricia for 56 years and the couple have two children and two grandchildren.
Geoff Banks, 74, of Ward Avenue, Cowes, has also been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM). A former mayor of Cowes, he is well-known for his work in promoting links between the town and Poland.
Geoff moved to the Isle of Wight in 1969, where he founded his own building firm, GJ Banks Ltd. However, he is better known for his work in a number of organisations which promote his adopted town. He is a former chairman of The Friends of St. Mary’s Hospital and director of the Cowes Town Waterfront Trust. He co-founded the Friends of ORP Blyskawica Society, which raises awareness of and commemorates the defence of Cowes and East Cowes by the historic Polish vessel.
He has been married to Kay for 49 years and has two daughters – Rachael and Jill – as well as two granddaughters.
Bryan Flawell, a Prison Officer at HM Prison, Isle of Wight, has been awarded an MBE.
In addition, wildlife journalist Chris Packham – who has close connections with the Isle of Wight Zoo – is to receive a CBE.
