Merseyrail charity champion receives British Empire Medal

Merseyrail’s Community Involvement Manager, Sally Ralston, was presented with the British Empire Medal (BEM) on Thursday 25 January, following her recognition in the inaugural King’s honours list.

Sally, who has been working for Merseyrail since 1991, leads on the train operating company’s support for charities and has been rewarded for her services to the community of the Liverpool City Region. 

She was nominated for her work which over the years has raised close to £1m for local charities and community organisations. 

Sally Ralston BEM said:

“It’s an absolute honour to receive the BEM. Not only for me but also in recognition of the many charities we have worked with over the last 20 years, and all our staff at Merseyrail who helped to keep some of them going with their generosity.  

“But knowing we are helping to make a difference to these organisations and the people who rely on them in our area is the best part of that.

“And it must be said, without the support of my friends, colleagues, and suppliers I wouldn’t be able to talk about these successes. The railway has given me opportunities to meet and help wonderful people, visit fantastic places and make lifelong friends.”

Sally received her BEM from the Lord Lieutenant of Liverpool, Mark Blundell, at a special ceremony at The Athenaeum in Liverpool city centre.

James Smith, HR Director at Merseyrail said:

“We’re all very proud of Sally and the incredible work she has led on over the years. It’s thanks to this work that many lives have been changed for the better, opportunities created, and people supported when they need it most.

“Sally is not only a credit to Merseyrail, but to the whole City Region. Merseyrail exists to deliver a railway that the people of the communities we serve can be proud of and it’s down to the efforts of colleagues like Sally, that we are able to consistently deliver this aim.”

Following the ceremony in Liverpool, Sally will also be attending a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace later in the year.

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