Cheshire community hero collects MBE at Buckingham Palace

Oct 18 2010 by Laurie Stocks-Moore, Chester Chronicle

Michael Trevor-Barnston

A COMMUNITY stalwart received his MBE from the Queen at Buckingham Palace.

Former High Sheriff of Cheshire Michael Trevor-Barnston, of Crewe Hill Lane, Farndon, was given the award for his services to the community in Cheshire. He manages an agricultural estate's farming, forestry and small businesses.

Mr Trevor-Barnston, who was among 90 people being honoured by Her Majesty, said: “It’s a lovely medal.

“She asked about Cheshire Crimebeat. It was fantastic, a wonderful occasion.

“They had a military band playing in a ballroom.

“We had a celebration lunch afterwards. Some of the others were in the army, some in the civil service. Some were from charities.”

Mr Trevor-Barnston’s wife Inger, son Edward and daughter Alex all looked on as he collected the medal.

Beefeaters, Gurkas and the Household Cavalry were all in attendance as well as an array of worthy people picking up awards.

Mr Trevor-Barnston has been told there are a limited number of occasions when he can wear the medal. “You can wear it on Rememberance Sunday, or a miniature version for certain dinners.”

Mr Trevor-Barnston set up the Cheshire Crimebeat, establishing more than 400 schemes to support communities combating drink, drugs and vandalism.

He was a director of Step Into Cheshire in 2004 and helped organise more than 100 events.

In 1992, he was the chairman of the National Game Fair in Tabley. In 1994 he was chairman of South Cheshire NSPCC Centenary Appeal when in excess of £100,000 was raised.

He is still very much involved, having joined Cheshire Community Action, a charity committed to providing funding and support for projects designed to protect and enhance communities.

The current president of the Cheshire Agricultural Society, Mr Trevor-Barnston is a leading figure in the organisation of the Cheshire Show.