Alan Grigg, who lives in Sutton Coldfield, is being awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM).
Alan has completed more than 70 years of service with St John Ambulance, having joined as a Cadet in 1953 and becoming an adult member in 1956. He was one of the first holders of the Duke of Edinburgh Gold award, receiving his in 1958. His roles have included Area Commissioner for Solihull and South Birmingham from 1996 to 2005, County Coordinator for the West Midlands from 2005 to 2013, and Unit Training Lead for Old Oscott Quadrilateral between 2013 and 2015. Since 2016, he has held the position of Area President for Solihull, and since 2018 he has served on the Honours and Awards Committee. He received the Gold Service Medal during the COVID‑19 lockdown and continues to contribute more than 500 volunteer hours each year.
His work includes designing first aid training days at Edgbaston Golf Club, raising over £8,000 through fundraising activities, and delivering both operational and vaccination training. He regularly attends remembrance services, presentation evenings and public health initiatives such as Restart a Heart. He also provides talks on the history of St John Ambulance. His involvement in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme includes helping to establish it within the organisation and mentoring participants, including one who became Lord‑Lieutenant Cadet for Solihull in 2022.
Speaking of his inclusion in the Birthday Honours List, Alan said:
“For over 70 years I have enjoyed every minute of being a volunteer with St John Ambulance. In my variety of roles from cadet to Network President, I have a great many memories of the people I have met, the places I have visited and the events I have attended.”
