Sally Ralston, who is the Community Involvement Manager for Merseyrail, was given the British Empire Medal (BEM) on Thursday, January 25. This came after she was named in the inaugural King’s honours list.
Sally has worked for Merseyrail since 1991 and is in charge of the company’s charity work, has been recognised for her contributions to the Liverpool City Region community.
People put her forward because of the work she has done to raise nearly £1 million for local charities and community groups over the years.
Sally Ralston BEM said:
“It’s an absolute honour to receive the BEM. Not only for me but also in recognition of the many charities we have worked with over the last 20 years, and all our staff at Merseyrail who helped to keep some of them going with their generosity.
“But knowing we are helping to make a difference to these organisations and the people who rely on them in our area is the best part of that.
“And it must be said, without the support of my friends, colleagues, and suppliers I wouldn’t be able to talk about these successes. The railway has given me opportunities to meet and help wonderful people, visit fantastic places and make lifelong friends.”
Mark Blundell, who is the Lord Lieutenant of Liverpool, gave Sally her BEM at a ceremony at The Athenaeum in the centre of Liverpool.
James Smith, HR Director at Merseyrail said:
“We’re all very proud of Sally and the incredible work she has led on over the years. It’s thanks to this work that many lives have been changed for the better, opportunities created, and people supported when they need it most.
“Sally is not only a credit to Merseyrail, but to the whole City Region. Merseyrail exists to deliver a railway that the people of the communities we serve can be proud of and it’s down to the efforts of colleagues like Sally, that we are able to consistently deliver this aim.”
After the event in Liverpool, Sally will also go to a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace later that same year.
READ MORE: MERSEYRAIL EMPLOYEE AWARDED BEM IN THE KINGS BIRTHDAY HONOUR LIST
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