People and communities
Two Walsall community heroes to be honoured at Investiture
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Two recipients from Walsall will receive their British Empire Medal (BEM) from the Lord Lieutenant for the West Midlands, Derrick Anderson CBE, at an Investiture in Birmingham on Thursday 25 September 2025.
The BEM recipients are from this year’s King’s Birthday Honours and New Year Honours.
David Payne will receive a BEM for services to the community in Aldridge. David, a dedicated member of the West Bromwich community, has served as Company Captain of the 14th West Bromwich Boys’ Brigade for 40 years and has been involved with the organisation for 55 years. His leadership has inspired generations of young people, instilling values of commitment and public service.
He raised over £10,000 through a sponsored walk from West Bromwich to Dyffryn Ardudwy, supporting both the Company and the West Midlands District Camping Centre. Beyond the Brigade, David is Trustee and Chairman of the G & T.H. Salter Trust, church steward at Charlemont Methodist Church and an active supporter of the Charlemont Dramatic Society. He was also appointed in 1990 as a crime court chair and mentor for new magistrates.
Joan Lockley will receive a BEM for services to wildlife. Founder of West Midlands Hedgehog Rescue, Joan has dedicated her life to the rescue and rehabilitation of hedgehogs in the last 25 years. She has rescued over 7,000 injured and orphaned animals, including 884 hedgehogs in 2023 alone. At 80, she remains active, running a purpose-built hospital from her garden and sharing her expertise with vets, the RSPCA and local groups.
She raises funds through calendars and open days, has featured on Channel 5’s Saving Britain’s Hedgehogs and received an International Fund for Animal Welfare award in 2015. Her work has been vital to protecting the region’s hedgehog population.
All recipients have made an active contribution to help others making the region a richer, kinder place.
The Lord-Lieutenant for West Midlands, Derrick Anderson CBE, believes the recipients reflect the depth and breadth of caring and goodwill that many people provide in the West Midlands.
“ The Investiture is a wonderful opportunity to recognise some exceptional people who have dedicated their lives to improving the lives of other people in this region. It is heart-warming to know that we are fortunate to have people that give so much and make a big difference to the communities where they live.
I really look forward to meeting them and celebrating their achievements. “
“ I would like to extend my congratulations to everyone who will be receiving a BEM at this year’s Investiture in Birmingham, including our recipients from Walsall. They go above and beyond to help others, volunteer in their own time and make a difference to the people around them. Their work has not gone unnoticed. May their continued efforts bring even more positive change. “
Anyone who knows of individuals who should be recognised can make a nomination for them. Nomination forms are on GOV.UK: https://www.gov.uk/honours.
