'Coincidental' honours recognition for Durham sisters
Two sisters have been individually recognised in this year's King's Birthday Honours.The chairperson of the Seven Stories children's book centre Claire Riley has been appointed OBE, while Lesley Powell of the North East Learning Trust was made a dame.The siblings, originally from Gateshead and who now both live in Chester-le-Street, said the recognition was "surreal".Ms Riley said: "Two girls from Gateshead in the same honours list for very different things is really something to try and comprehend."
She said the pair were still trying to "digest" the news but the recognition would not have been achieved without the people around them."We are surrounded by people who are fantastic at their jobs and certainly better than us and we just so happen to be recognised," she said.Ms Riley was honoured for her services to children's literacy as well as for her previous work as the head of corporate services for the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB). She said Seven Stories had some "really exciting plans" for the future."We've just launched a site at Durham city centre and we'll have more developments of that nature."
'Passionate about North East'
Ms Powell, who was previously appointed CBE, said the recognition for her services to education was a "massive reflection of a team of people's work".She said her mother could not wait to tell people and was "pretty proud"."We just can't believe it," she said. "The coincidence of it happening at all, let alone at the same time, we're absolutely taken aback."She said the pair were "passionate about the North East"."We take great pride in our region and where we come from."Hartlepool Golf Club stalwart Chris Pascall, 70, has been appointed MBE for services to the sport.Since 1972, she played for England at various levels and continues to promote the game in schools and among the community. She also became the fifth-ever President of England Golf.Paul Andrew, from Sunderland, was also appointed MBE for his services to young people in the region. He said it was great recognition for the charity he chairs, Young Asian Voices, which provides opportunities for youngsters across the North East. This includes helping them access sports including cricket and football.
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