Disabled sailor thrilled with honour
DISABLED sailor Geoff Holt has been made an MBE for his contribution to disabled sailing.
The 44-year-old from Shedfield, near Fareham, sailed across the Atlantic unassisted at the beginning of the year.
He has also sailed around Great Britain on his own.
And now the sailor who has been quadriplegic since an accident 25 years ago, is being rewarded for all his hard work.
Mr Holt said: 'I'm absolutely thrilled. It came as a shock, I wasn't expecting it.
'I don't do it for any other recognition. I'm absolutely over the moon.
'I found out six weeks ago but the only person who knew was my wife. She said she was very proud and she thinks it's well deserved.
'The prospect of me going and getting my medal from the Queen is great.'
Robert Hill, chairman of Chemring Marine and managing director of Chemring EOD, was awarded an OBE. The businesses are both part of the Chemring Group, a company based in Whiteley which makes maritime distress flares and bomb disposal equipment.
Belfast-born Mr Hill, 59, of Titchfield, began his career aged 16, as a crew member with P&O, before going on to management positions in firms like Lewmar and McMurdo.
Major General Garry Robison, from Portsmouth, has been appointed Captain of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath (CB) for his work as Commandant General and his current appointment as Chief of Staff within the navy command headquarters.
Christopher Pratt, from Fareham, from the UK Border Agency, was also made an MBE.
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Friday 25 May 2012
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