Several individuals from Wigan have received prestigious awards in the King’s New Year’s Honours list. Among them are the principal of Wigan and Leigh College, a prison director, a football star, and a dedicated fostering couple, all recognized for their significant contributions to their respective fields.
Recognition for Educational Leadership
Anna Dawe, principal of Wigan and Leigh College, has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her exceptional services to further education and community development. Since taking on her role, Dawe has guided the college through transformative changes, enhancing its reputation for quality education and expanding vocational pathways.
Under her leadership, the college has strengthened partnerships with local employers, ensuring that students acquire the skills necessary for success in the regional economy. The college has also been recognized as the North West’s centre of excellence for construction skills, a testament to its strategic focus on aligning education with industry needs.
Andrea Ferguson, chair of the college’s governing board, praised Dawe’s leadership, stating, “This is a richly deserved recognition of Anna’s exceptional leadership and her tireless commitment to students, staff, and the wider community.” In response to her honour, Dawe remarked, “I am deeply honoured to receive this award. It reflects the collective effort of an incredible team of staff, governors, students, and partners who share a belief in the power of education to change lives.”
Honours for Public Service and Sporting Excellence
Another recipient of an OBE is Wyn Jones, director of the recently opened Fosse Way prison in Leicestershire. This high-tech facility, managed by Serco, can accommodate up to 1,715 inmates. Jones received the award for his dedicated public service. He expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “My team and I work hard in HMP Fosse Way to deal with offenders and rehabilitate them. This recognition is a genuine honour and has made this born-and-bred Wigan lad very proud.”
In the realm of sports, Ella Toone, a talented footballer from Tyldesley and a member of the England women’s football team, has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). Toone, who played a key role in securing the UEFA Women’s Euros crown for her team in the summer of 2022, has been recognized for her contributions to the sport.
Fostering couple Jacqueline and Norman Lowe, who are residents of Wigan and operate under the auspices of St Helens Council, are also among the honorees. They will receive British Empire Medals for their long-standing commitment to foster care, demonstrating their dedication to the well-being of vulnerable children in the community.
Additionally, Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester and a frequent visitor to Wigan, has been honored with a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). His work has significantly influenced transportation and infrastructure in the region.
The recognition of these individuals highlights the diverse contributions to education, public service, and community welfare originating from Wigan. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to others in their fields and reflect the positive impact of committed individuals on society.
