92-year-old man from York honoured for decades of service to city

A community champion has been awarded a British Empire Medal for his services to the city.

A COMMUNITY champion has been awarded a British Empire Medal for his services to the city.

Graeme Robertson, who is 92 and from York, received the honour from the Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire at a ceremony on Tuesday (October 13) in recognition of his services to the Community of York.

His proud daughter, Heather said: "At age 92, my dad continues to support the Community of York and local charities and organisations with as much dedication and enthusiasm as ever."

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Over the past five decades, he has supported numerous charities and organisations, including 50 years with Talking News for the Blind and Visually Impaired, where his voice was featured on the first recording in 1976.

A long-serving York Minster guide, Mr Robertson has led more than 1,000 historical tours over 25 years and continues to volunteer weekly where he may be the oldest guide.

Graeme being honoured (Image: Provided)

He is also a familiar face in York city centre, raising funds for the RAF Benevolent Fund, and volunteered as a steward during the Covid-19 pandemic at the Askham Bar vaccination centre.

His other community roles include serving as a magistrate, school governor, church treasurer, prison visitor, care home trustee. and hospital radio DJ.

Graeme and his loved ones (Image: Provided)

Graeme also volunteered as the "mystery diner" for the York Press for 15 years.

In October 2023, he received a High Sheriff Award for his ‘commitment to the county’s community’ from the High Sheriff of North Yorkshire.