A POLICE sergeant from Blackburn who visited Buckingham Palace to receive an MBE has spoken of his pride.

Sgt John Rigby, who works as part of Eastern Division’s Community Cohesion Unit, has spent more than 19 years with Lancashire Police.

Sgt Rigby, who went down to London to collect his achievement awarded in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list, has around 30 years’ policing experience, having also worked for the Metropolitan Police for 11 years.

He said: “I am truly honoured and extremely proud to receive the MBE, particularly as my wife and two sons attended with me.

“I will always regard this achievement with pride on behalf of not only my family but my team and the officers, staff and communities I’ve had the privilege of working with during my time in Lancashire.”

Chief Superintendent Bob Eastwood, divisional commander for Eastern Division, said he was delighted that Sgt Rigby had been recognised with such a prestigious accolade.

He said: “This is a fantastic achievement which is testament to John’s motivation, dedication and passion in leading his team and promoting cohesion within the complex communities of the division.”