Suffolk residents Teresa Aristodemou, Richard Evans, and Robert Utting, honoured at investiture ceremony in Euston

A special investiture ceremony was held for three Suffolk residents today with one award given for the first time to someone in the county.

Teresa Aristodemou, founder of Aspect Living Foundation, received her British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to older people in Suffolk, and Mr Richard Evans received his BEM for services to the community of Stansfield, between Bury St Edmunds and Sudbury.

Robert Utting received his Imperial Service Medal for services to HM Courts and Tribunal Services, with the award given to civil servants who have completed at least 25 years of faithful and meritorious service.

It is the first time on record that the Lord-Lieutenant has decorated a recipient in Suffolk with the Imperial Service Medal.

All three residents received their honours as part of His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours List 2024.

The British Empire Medal, created in June 1917, is awarded for either meritorious service or for gallantry.

The Imperial Service Medal was introduced in 1902 by Edward VII, as a civil order of distinction for eligible civil servants in recognition of long, faithful, and meritorious service.

Speaking after the ceremony, the Lord-Lieutenant of Suffolk, Clare, Countess of Euston, said: "It is always wonderful for me to welcome people to Euston and invest them with the honours they so richly deserve.

“Listening to their stories of service, and hearing about the sacrifices they have made in their own lives to help serve others, is deeply humbling.

“I extend my thanks to Teresa, Richard and Robert for their service to the communities of Suffolk."