A TAUNTON IT consultant has been awarded the BEM for services to the community of Somerset, particularly during the Covid pandemic.

Andrew Samuel said he was "proud, happy and overwhelmed" to receive the accolade in the New Year Honours List.

Andrew assisted Natalie Dyson after she set up a Facebook group which moved on to be a support group during the crisis.

He built a phone system, writing a piece of software to log requests for help, with around 30 volunteers taking calls.

 

It led to a team of volunteers carrying out tasks such as collecting prescriptions, window cleaning, lawn mowing and many other tasks.

Andrew, who is married with three children, served as acting technical manager when The Brewhouse theatre re-opened in Taunton and was on the Wellington Arts Association management committee for 17 years.

He has also volunteered at St George's Church, Wilton, and was the drummer for the Scout and Guides Show.

He said: "I like helping. I don't need anything for it.

"I'm very proud to get the honour, but that's not why I do it.

"I'm a bit overwhelmed to think the Prime Minister sent a letter to the King about me.

"It makes me realise people have noticed, that it's welcomed and not all in vain."