New Year Honours for Basildon community heroes

Basildon community figures have been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours list.

Founder of dance group La Danse Fantastique Moira Brock, from Laindon, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for her work with children and young people.

Founder of Basildon’s Maru Karate Kai club Marc Grayston will also receive the British Empire Medal for services to disadvantaged young people and the community.

Richard Gregory, from Laindon, has also been awarded the BEM in recognition of his philanthropic career.

Gillian Jayne Millane is Co-Founder of the charity Love Grace. From Billericay, Gillian has been awarded an OBE for services to Charitable Fundraising and Tackling Violence Against Women.

Also receiving a BEM is Mike Ballinger, 77, for services to the community in Wickford and District where he is treasurer and studio manager for Wickford and District Talking Newspaper for the Blind.

Congratulations!