Three Jersey residents recognised with honours

Jeannine Carey was awarded a BEM for services to the disability community in Jersey

Three Jersey residents have been included in the New Year Honours list.

Teacher Ruth Smith, who introduced a daily food programme to a school in Kenya, has been appointed an MBE for services to the communities in Jersey and Kenya.

Steven Cartwright, chief officer of the Bailiff's Chambers, has been appointed an MBE for services to the community.

Jeannine Carey has been awarded a BEM for services to the disability community, through her work with Jersey Sports Association for the Disabled.

Miss Carey started working with people with special educational needs when she was 14-years-old.

After gaining sports training qualifications, she has helped widen the opportunities in sport for people with disabilities in Jersey.

"Seeing the difference it made to people is what has spurred me on to carry on and do more," she said.

'Totally humbled'

Miss Carey found out she would receive her BEM via a phone call from the Lieutenant Governor, Jerry Kyd, while she was at work.

"It was quite a strange situation because he tried to make contact with me a few times before, but I was in a meeting," she said.

"When I got this phone call, the last person I was expecting to be on the other end was the governor."

She said receiving the news was "humbling".

"I just totally appreciate everyone for nominating me," she said.

"I just can't believe what I do merited such a thing."

She added: "It's not just about me, I can't do my work without friends and family supporting me, without the coaches that we have."

Steven Cartwright, right, took part in the D-Day commemorations at Noirmont with the Lieutenant Governor Jerry Kyd

Mr Cartwright said he was "particularly proud" of helping organise a Midnight Mass in Howard Davis Park for the Romanian Orthodox community, which was attended by hundreds.

"I get a real kick out of being able to make things happen for the island's communities," he said.

Ruth Smith set up a school in Kenya in 2015

Mrs Smith said she was "in shock" when she received a call to tell her she was receiving an honour.

"I like helping people, and I know how lucky I am, so it's important to help others who aren't so fortunate," she said.

"We opened the school in Kenya in 2015, and it was intended to just be an early years school, but it really took off.

She added: "Eventually there were around 300 children there. Sixty percent of them wouldn't be in education without it. I get a great deal of satisfaction from it".