Wirral policeman, chair of arts organisation and health workers recognised in New Year Honours list

Jan 6 2010 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

WIRRALIANS dedicated to healthcare, the arts and law enforcement were among those recognised in the New Year Honours list.

Noel Ormrod, 78, from Wallasey, who was chairman of Wallasey Arts Council for 34 years, received an MBE for services to the arts.

The organisation attracted big names, including Julian Lloyd Webber, but closed last summer after Mr Ormrod decided to call it a day.

Daughter Rosalie, speaking on behalf of her family and members of the former Wallasey Arts Council, said: “We are all so proud of our dad and friend for being awarded the MBE in the New Years Honours list.

“He has worked tirelessly for over 30 years to bring many famous people to Wallasey, and of course local people have also had a platform.

“To be awarded in such a generous way is quite remarkable.”

Another recipient of the MBE was Angus Tilston, 76, of Bebington, who was recognised for services to the historical film industry in the North West.

Lilian Baker, founder of Woodside-based mental health charity Advocacy in Wirral, received an MBE for services to mental health care.

Lilian, of Bebington, set up the charity in 1992 after suffering mental health problems herself and finding little practical help was available.

Advocacy in Wirral started with a small team of four friends and now employs 50 people.

She said the award was for everyone involved in the day-to-day work of the charity.

She said: “It’s a tribute to the work that they do – as well as a recognition that there are a range of people in Wirral who have managed to regain a positive lifestyle after poor mental health episodes.”