A ninety-six-year-old volunteer from Newtown Lindford has received the surprise of his life after being honoured by HRH The Queen.

Tony Bradley, who volunteers at Beaumont Hall care home in Beaumont Leys, has been appointed MBE for services to the community.

Since his wife Renelle moved into the care home in 2017, Tony has been entertaining and chatting to its residents. He spends five days a week at the care home, hosting afternoon teas, organising bingo games and special film shows. He also brings his dog Molly in to visit the residents and helps out with any odd jobs that need doing.

In December, Tony was “utterly shocked” to receive a letter informing him of the award but was sworn to secrecy until The Queen announced her list of New Year Honours in January.

Sadly, Tony’s wife passed away in 2020 but he has continued to visit Beaumont Hall because he enjoys spending time with the residents and has lots of ideas and plans for future events and activities for residents at the care home.

Beaumont Hall care home manager Lee Daly said: “Tony is here all the time and can’t do enough to help us and spend time with our residents. We’re all very proud of him and this really couldn’t have happened to a nicer or more deserving person. We’re going to get him a new name badge made up with ‘Tony Bradley MBE’ written on it!

“Tony is a hugely valuable part of our team here at Beaumont Hall and on behalf of all our staff and residents we wish him our warmest congratulations.”

Tony Bradley MBE commented: “I was in such a shock when I received the letter. I couldn’t believe it. It never occurred to me that I would ever be given an MBE!

“It is now starting to sink in, and I feel incredibly proud and deeply honoured. Everyone at Beaumont Hall has been so kind, sending cards and messages of congratulations. They are all very excited for me. I just love spending time there, being with people and having fun with the residents and have no plans to stop anytime soon.”