Royal seal of approval for Derbyshire Dales stalwarts

David Walker of Bakewell has been awarded an OBE for his services to disabled people

Coldstream Guard David Lochrie, formerly of Darley Dale, was named alongside David Walker, of Bakewell, in the Queen’s birthday honours.

Warrant Officer Class 1 Sergeant Major David Lochrie was awarded a MBE.

Some of the most notable points of his 29–year career in the army have included organising security for the Royal wedding in 2011 and Baroness Thatcher’s funeral last year – however he says this is his greatest achievement so far.

“I would never ever take it for granted that I would be in receipt of such an award. It’s an honour,” the 46–year–old said.

He added: “Her Majesty The Queen is an iconic symbol of Great Britain.”

The father–of–two, who now lives in County Durham when he is not in London, may rub shoulders with royalty, but he had humble beginnings, having attended Darley Church Town School and John Turner School, before becoming an apprentice joiner in Bakewell.

After three decades of service to the country, he has been awarded nine medals.

Sergeant Major Lochrie still enjoys coming back to Darley Dale and seeing friends and family.

David Walker was awarded an OBE for his services to people with disabilities.

The 70–year–old founded Autochair, a company which manufactures and sells equipment to help people with mobility problems, 30 years ago.

In 1975, David was involved in a car accident which left him wheelchair bound.

A trained engineer, he decided to put his technical brain to use and come up with a way to help him get out and about. David designed the Autochair, which assists disabled people in and out of cars.

“I’m delighted to be awarded the OBE and I’m delighted for my wife, Carol, who has assisted me over the last 40 years,” he said.

Wrestling supremo Malcolm Morley, who started out his career at Middleton and Wirksworth Wrestling Club, has been awarded an OBE.

The 74–year–old, of Brimington, said: “I am very pleased.”

Others listed included Helen Bishop, head of community investment at Rolls–Royce, who was awarded a MBE for her services to industry and communities.

Sandra Lawton, of Baslow, a nurse consultant in dermatology at Nottingham Queen’s Medical Centre, was awarded an OBE for services to nursing.

Robin Wood, of Edale, was awarded a MBE for services to heritage crafts and skills.

Former chief executive of Derbyshire Dales District Council and clerk to the Lieutenancy Derbyshire, David Wheatcroft, was awarded an MVO.