Martin Blondel, the General Manager of the Steve Prescott Foundation, has been awarded an MBE for services to the community in St Helens, particularly during Covid-19.
“I am absolutely overwhelmed and humbled to receive an MBE for services to the St Helens Community during COVID 19,” he said.
“It has been an extremely difficult time for everyone during this pandemic. This award is dedicated to my beautiful caring mother Val Blondel who sadly left us in January due to COVID. My mum like most was taken far too early.
“This MBE is for everyone who contributed and supported The Eccleston Arms Essential Items project, none more so than the proprietor Andrew Mikhail, along with his great team at Mikhail Group. I am truly blessed to have great support from the Trustees and committee of The Steve Prescott Foundation. Without their continued support, we could not help those less fortunate than ourselves and keep the great man’s name and legacy alive.
“A huge thank you to Blackbrook Rugby Club, (special mention to Craig Lyon) along with SPF Ambassadors Tommy Martyn, Lee Briers, Martin Murray, Paul Sculthorpe and the legend and Pride of St Helens Johnny Vegas.
“Finally, I would like to thank my beautiful wife Karen, my precious daughter Sarah and all my family.
“Thanks once again to everyone who made this happen.”
Simon Johnson, RFL Chair said: “Martin Blondel has not been recognised specifically for his work in Rugby League, but he has worked tirelessly and selflessly to help Rugby League people who encounter tough times, initially through the Steve Prescott Foundation and never more importantly than during the challenges of 2020-21, when Rugby League’s social value in towns such as St Helens shone through so brightly.
“I am delighted and honoured to welcome this award on behalf of the RFL and the sport.”
Everyone at St Helens R.F.C. congratulates Martin on his MBE.
