Melksham Town legend Mick Perrin has collected his British Empire Medal (BEM) which was awarded in recognition of his outstanding dedication to grassroots football and the local community.
Mick was presented with the honour by the Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Dame Sarah Troughton, at a special ceremony held at County Hall, Trowbridge, on Monday 7th April. Also in attendance was the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, Martin Nye.
The award, announced in the New Year’s Honours List, marked a remarkable 62-year association with Melksham Town Football Club, where Mick served as a player, secretary, chairman and president.
Mick attended the ceremony with his wife Jenny, children Darren and Stephen, their wives Nicola and Jayne, and grandchildren Kieran and Charlotte.
“It was absolutely fabulous, a lovely day; we were so well looked after,” said Mick. “The Lord-Lieutenant was so friendly and really down to earth. It was a very special day for me and my family – it’s something I’ll never forget.”
Dame Sarah Troughton paid tribute to Mick saying his award was “richly deserved”.
Afterwards, Mick enjoyed a drink at the Tollgate Inn in Holt before enjoying a celebration family meal at Refa Tandoori in Melksham. “The day ended with a fabulous meal at Refa and just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, an amazing cake decorated with the BEM was brought out!” said Mick.
Starting as a player for Melksham Town in his youth, Mick later took on the role of club secretary for 15 years, before becoming chairman for another 15 years. In recent years, he served as joint president of the club alongside his close friend Dave Phillips.
“It was a complete surprise when I got the letter from the Cabinet Office about the award; I have to admit it had me in tears,” said Mick, back in January after receiving the award. “I never expected anything like this; I’m very, very proud.
“I love Melksham; I’ve lived here all my life; it’s a fantastic town with fantastic people and this award is just the icing on the cake from my years at the club.”
