Jersey community champions on New Year Honours list

Kevin Keen was appointed OBE for his services to the island's business and charity communities

Three people from Jersey have been included on the New Year Honours list.

Kevin Keen, who has held roles at organisations including Jersey Dairy, the JSPCA and Jersey Post, said he felt "very privileged" to be made OBE.

Michael Blackie, chairman of the Executive Council of the Jersey Eisteddfod, has become MBE.

Peter Tabb, president of the Maison des Landes board of trustees, was awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for his services to the community.

Mr Keen, is appointed OBE for his services to the island's business and charity communities.

He said: "Seeing the dairy progress from the difficulties we had in 2002 to the business it is today, helping the post office get back on its feet during a difficult time [and] the JSPCA who were in real trouble... I just feel very very lucky to have that chance to help.

Michael Blackie, from the Jersey Eisteddfod, was appointed MBE

"I've always been driven by the purpose to see these organisations succeed because they were all important organisations for Jersey. I had plenty of support from people around me."

Mr Blackie, who has been involved with the Jersey Eisteddfod - a cultural festival and competition - since 1999, said being included on the honours list was a "complete and utter surprise".

He added that since being involved, "it's become apparent to me the eisteddfod is an important element of the cultural life of the island".

Peter Tabb said opening the Maison des Landes was a team effort

Mr Tabb, who led the £3.8m refurbishment of the Maison des Landes, said the project was a team effort.

The hotel, a charitable trust, is the only one on the island designed with accessibility for people with disabilities, and was set-up by the Lions Club of Jersey.

"I've been working with a dedicated and remarkable team of volunteers from the Lions Club, which I've belonged to myself for 50 years," he said.

"I would not have achieved anything without being party of a team."

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