Governor Hollamby presented Basil George of Willow Bough, Putty Hill, with the Insignia of an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) on Saturday 17 May at Plantation House.

In presenting the Insignia, Governor Hollamby acknowledged the work done by Basil George, OBE, in Education and for the community, and what he is currently doing to promote tourism.

Basil served as the first local Chief Education Officer from 1983 to 1996 and was in this role when Prince Andrew School was opened. He is also actively involved with a number of voluntary organisations.

He was involved in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme at the early stages and is a founder member of the Handicapped Persons Aid Society, the St Helena Diving Club, the St Helena Heritage Society and the St Helena Nature Conservation Group. Basil also played a key role as chairman of the Citizenship Commission, whose hard work contributed to the restoration of British Citizenship for the people of St Helena.

In his address to invited guests comprising, friends, family members and former colleagues, Basil acknowledged the people who contributed to the achievements made, either through his work or through voluntary organisations.

He concluded by sharing three "very memorable occasions" which he had experienced through his work. "One was the opening of Prince Andrew School. Another the presentation of the Charter Book during a Church service at St James, the third a family night out at the Mule Yard organised by Barry Brooks and his team. They all gave a strong sense of community and commitment. It is something I hope we will never lose," said Basil.