Meridian OBE

The head of the Portsmouth-based Royal Marines Band Service who played a major part in the musical celebrations for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee has received his OBE from the Prince of Wales.

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Grace, 48, was presented with his award at Buckingham Palace. Last year he organised and conducted the music at the high-profile Jubilee Muster and Review of the Armed Forces at Windsor.

As Principal Director of Music for the RM Band Service he led massed bands from the three services – more than 450 musicians and pipers – in front of the Queen and a worldwide television audience of millions.

PC Kim White describes her joy at being awarded an OBE for her services to the travelling community as part of her work for Kent Police.