Somerset man awarded British Empire Medal for helping after coach crash
Eric Norman honoured for opening his pub as a refuge after a coach crash
Eric Norman, a 74-year-old pub landlord from Wheddon Cross, Somerset, has been awarded the British Empire Medal in recognition of his remarkable community service.
Mr Norman, who runs the Rest and Be Thankful pub, was recognised for his quick thinking and generosity following a tragic coach crash last July in West Somerset.
The crash involved pupils returning from a school trip, sadly resulting in one child's death.
In the wake of the accident, Norman opened his pub as a refuge for the children, school staff, parents, and emergency services, providing shelter and support during an extraordinarily difficult time.
The citation accompanying the award commended Norman's instinctive generosity and unwavering support, noting, "His actions became a testament of how a local community responds in times of stress and emergency."
The medal was presented by Mohammed Saddiq, the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, who praised Norman's exemplary actions and highlighted the role he played in assisting emergency responders by removing pressure through his swift actions.
Mr Norman expressed his gratitude and humility in receiving the award, stating, "I like to think this medal is for the entire community who within half an hour rallied round on that dreadful day and tried to give help where we could."
The presentation took place at a garden party near Frome, organised to honour the work of local charities.