THE founder of a chain of DIY stores across the North-East has been granted an MBE for his long-term support of local charities.

Albert Dicken, retired businessman and once chairman of the home improvement group Dickens Hypermarkets, has been working with and supporting charities for more than 40 years.

The Dickens name disappeared in 1999 when the chain was sold to B&Q but the 71-year-old businessman helped both autism charity Daisy Chain and the Butterwick Hospice in his time.

Mr Dicken said: “I am really delighted and honoured to receive an MBE.

“I can honestly say it has been a wonderful time; sometimes hair-raising but, nonetheless, really satisfying to see the vision of people become a reality.

“I’ve met some extremely lovely and dedicated people.

“The late Mary Butterwick, who founded the Butterwick Hospice, was one example.

“She devoted a good part of her life to the cause and saw it grow from a wild idea to the highly valued care facility it is today. It was indeed a pleasure working with her and serving as chairman for 15 years.

“Similarly, the late Lesley Hanson, a mum with an autistic child, who just wanted to have a place where autistic children could feel at ease and get the help they needed.

“She started with nothing and her vision was realized with the creation of the Daisy Chain Autistic Centre.

“Just look at the Centre now. She would be very proud.”

Mr Dicken continues to support a number of charities, particularly those helping people overcome addictions.

He was born in Thornaby in May 1946 and started off chopping sticks for the family business, Dickens Timber Limited, after leaving school at 14.

He eventually took over the business and was instrumental in developing the company to become the largest DIY superstore chain in the North-East, employing more than 1,000 local people. Mr Dickens is married to Pauline, they have two sons, Marcus and Jonathan, and five grandchildren.

The Dickens name was launched in Stockton in 1878. By the time the hypermarket chain was sold there were stores in Stockton, Darlington, Shiremoor, North Tyneside, Washington and Newcastle. The chain’s promotional campaigns were well remembered. Mr Blobby opened one store with thousands attending.