Merseyside Dance Initiative boss Karen Gallagher is made an MBE

Dec 31 2011 by Catherine Jones, Liverpool Echo

A CHAMPION of dance on Merseyside was celebrating today as she was made an MBE in the New YearsHonours.

Merseyside Dance Initiative managing director Karen Gallagher was awarded the accolade for her services to dance.

The 49-year-old, from New Brighton, said: “I cannot quite believe it. I was really shocked to receive the letter – I thought it was a joke at first.

“Service to dance is what I do, so this just like a massive piece of icing on top of a cake.

“And, other than having my son, receiving the MBE is the proudest thing I have ever achieved.

“I think I was nominated by our former chairman of the board, Clive Taylor, who sadly passed away in October.”

MDI is the regional dance agency for Merseyside and Karen has led its growth from a modest agency in 1994 to an internationally-respected organisation which promotes a culture of inclusion regardless of background, ability or age.

The MBE marks the end of a successful 2011 for Karen, who was also named a runner-up in the Merseyside Woman Of The Year awards.