I am delighted by the news that Geoff Rofe and Rajiv Ouseph have both been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to badminton, in the Queens New Years Honours which were recently announced. Raj has been one of our most decorated players of the modern era, an incredible ambassador for the sport and a captain of the England Team who has led by example. Our volunteers are the heartbeat of the sport and none more so than Geoff, he has held so many offices in our sport, for Kent Badminton and for Badminton England for more than half a century. He became President of Badminton England in 2011, and like Raj he was an exemplary ambassador for our organisation. These awards recognise the respective, outstanding contributions both have made to badminton over many years and I am so delighted for them both. This is a hugely proud moment for Geoff, Raj and their families and their honours are richly deserved.

Kind regards Adrian Christy