A MAN who has raised thousands of pounds for good causes in Worcestershire and further afield has been recognised in The Queen's New Years Honours.

Richard Campbell has been awarded an MBE for services to the community in the West Midlands.

The 73-year-old will be a familiar face to many having been in the Salvation Army since he was a youngster, and playing in the Salvation Army band.

Mr Campbell said the first he heard about the award was receiving a call from the Cabinet Office telling him he could expect an email from them.

"It went from there - I was told I would be mentioned (in the honours)," Mr Campbell said.

"It was a big shock, the phone hasn't stopped ringing for days.

"I have been in the Salvation Army all my life. The award is not just connected to fundraising, it is for helping charity events, and community projects."

Mr Campbell was born in Kidderminster where he grew up, before moving to Cradley Heath in the 1960s where he married his wife Pauline. The pair went on to have their son, Ian.

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He returned to Worcestershire in 2012, the family living in Malvern for three years before moving to Droitwich where they have been based ever since.

On its Facebook site, a spokesman from Droitwich Salvation Army said: "It is with immense pride I write this message - our very own Droitwich Corps member has been awarded the MBE.

"Congratulations Richard Campbell MBE.

"Awarded for 50 years of service to the community and fundraising.

"Richard, I know, doesn't do what he does for recognition or limelight but it is wonderful that he has received this award.

"Well done and congratulations and love from us all."