SIX local people dedicated to their work, or charitable causes, have been rewarded for their efforts in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Eric Littler, Jean McEvoy, Sheila Whalley, Peter George Fletcher, Bertha Heyes and Stan Magowan were each made Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

Eric Littler (74) received his award for services to the Boys Brigade in St Helens and the North West. Eric, who lives in Ashton-in-Makerfield, joined the brigade at the age of 13. The company was attached to St Mark's Church, Haydock, where Eric later took an active part in youth work and other areas of service.

He was a founder member and the first captain of the present 2nd Haydock committee and chairman for nine years of the committee responsible for the Annual District Display held at the Tower Circus, Blackpool.

After working abroad for a number of years Eric returned to England in 1986 and began work as the president of the St Helens Battalion of the Boys Brigade. The father-of-three is now an honorary vice-president of the NW district and chairman of the management committee of the District Training Centre at Kirkham.

Jean McEvoy received her MBE for services as a probation officer at Her Majesty's Prison Preston.

Jean's career in the probation service spans 20 years and the honour is in recognition of her work along with probation and prison service colleagues within the prison. This work, actively supported by the governor and deputy governor, included pioneering a 'new arrivals' induction programme for all prisoners entering Preston, whether on remand, convicted or sentenced

Jean is married with two children and lives in Newton-le-Willows.

Bertha Heyes (80) a stalwart of the League of Friends at St Helens Hospital was awarded the MBE for her dedication to the service over the last 40 years. During her time with the League of Friends, Bertha, who lives in Sandringham Drive, Marshalls Cross, has raised thousands of pounds for the hospital and she is continuing to do so.

Every month she organises a dance to raise money for the hospital and she also organises bingo events twice a year to raise money to buy Christmas presents for patients.

A delighted Bertha, who has a daughter and two sons, said: "I still can't believe it. I only found out about the MBE last Saturday and I'm still getting used to the idea.

"Everybody has been marvellous. My house is full of flowers and cards from people congratulating me, it's wonderful."

Stan Magowan, managing director of Ellisons Travel in St Helens, received his award for services to the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA).

Stan (65) who is married to Gillian and has two sons, revealed: "I found out about the honour on May 8 and was told not to say anything, which I found really difficult.

"Receiving the MBE is a great honour and privilege."

Stan, who is originally from Northern Ireland, moved to St Helens 37 years ago.

Peter George Fletcher (65) received his award for services to the British Nuclear Test Veterans' Association.

Peter is vice-chairman of the association which is campaigning for pensions for nuclear test veterans.

Born and bred in Fingerpost, Peter now lives in Clipsley Lane, Haydock, and is married with three daughters and a son.

See other story for Sheila Whalley.

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