After nearly 30 years of service to the National Trust, the former Museums and Collections Director Sarah Staniforth has been appointed Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in the New Year Honours list.
Former National Trust Museums and Collections Director Sarah Staniforth was appointed CBE in New Year Honours 2015. Credit National Trust / Chris Lacey
Ms Staniforth, who stepped down from her post this year to take an honorary position at the Trust, was credited for her services to National Heritage.
She was delighted to receive the award. “It’s honour enough to have worked for the National Trust for nearly 30 years and also to contribute to other heritage charities in the UK,” she said. “To be recognised in this way is completely overwhelming.”
Ms Staniforth, from Cheltenham, is regarded both inside and outside the charity as an international authority on conservation practice and is held in great affection by her colleagues. She continues to demonstrate her commitment to looking after heritage in her role as President at the International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (IIC).
More recognition for National Trust staff and volunteers
Other National Trust staff and volunteers recognised in the Queen’s New Year Honours list include volunteer and former National Trust Council Member Dr Patrick Morris.
Dr Morris, from Ascot, was appointed Member of the British Empire (MBE) for services to the Natural and Historic Environment. He was Senior Lecturer in Zoology at Royal Holloway, University of London, and is well known for his studies on mammal ecology and his expertise in taxidermy.
Former National Trust Director for the North West, Tiffany Hunt, was also awarded an MBE for services to Heritage. Ms Hunt, from Cartmel, spent more than 25 years at the Trust before moving on to other charitable organisations, including her current role as NW Regional Committee member at Heritage Lottery Fund.
British Empire Medals awarded
Volunteer June Davey, who has been a room steward and tour guide for more than a decade at Clandon Park, was awarded the recently reinstated British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to Heritage.
The Trust’s former Head Gardener at Mottisfont Abbey, David Stone, was also awarded the BEM for services to Horticultural Heritage. Mr Stone dedicated more than 30 years to the Trust and riverside gardens at Mottisfont before retiring earlier this year.
