A TRUE hero and ambassador for the city in which he has lived for almost 100 years has received a British Empire Medal (BEM) in recognition of his community and voluntary service.

Len Gibson, 99, from West Herrington, was presented with his British Empire Medal by Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear, Mrs Susan Winfield OBE, in the Mayor’s Parlour at Sunderland civic centre.

Second World War veteran and retired teacher Mr Gibson is a former Far East Prisoner of War (FEPOW) forced to work on the infamous Mergui Road building the ‘Death Railway’ in Burma during his time in captivity.

Mr Gibson regularly leads prayers and readings in honour of fallen comrades at commemorative events in Sunderland, including the annual Remembrance Parade and Service in the city centre.

As part of his commitment to keeping their memories alive and raising awareness of their suffering and sacrifice while in service, he is also a speaker at community and fundraising events including his work with Age UK Sunderland and the Sunderland Antiquarian Society.

As an official Ambassador for Sunderland Mr Gibson was also part of the bid for City of Culture in 2017 as one of the community’s ‘local heroes’ featured in a cultural celebration event, earning a standing ovation at the age of 96 for his singing and guitar playing which provided the musical finale.

The presentation ceremony was hosted by the Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor David Snowdon, with guests including Mr Gibson’s sister, Ena Gardiner, daughter Jennifer and her husband, one of his granddaughters, three of his grandsons and five of his great grand children who were escorted to their seats by the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet.

Len Gibson BEM said:“I have lived in Sunderland for almost one hundred years, in a city which I love surrounded by good friends and a marvellous family - what more could a man wish for.

“I am honoured to be awarded the British Empire Medal, and proud to accept not only personally but on behalf of the fallen friends and comrades whose memory and sacrifice I work with the people of Sunderland to remember.

“My only regret is that my dear departed wife isn’t here to share this day, she would have been so proud.”

His daughter, Jennifer added: “All my father’s family and friends were delighted to hear about this special presentation.

“They all know how tirelessly he has worked to support his fellow members of the FEPOW, more recent veterans, and also the city and community of his beloved Sunderland of which he is a proud and life-long resident.”

The Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor David Snowdon said: “Mr Gibson is a true hero of his city, his community and his country and I was honoured to be able to join him and his family for the presentation of his British Empire Medal.

“His presence at Remembrance and community events throughout the year is greatly valued and appreciated, where he represents veterans across the armed forces and across history with valour and distinction.”

The British Empire Medal is awarded to people in recognition for outstanding services to their country, community, profession and walk of life as part of the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.