Richard Hawkins, the lock keeper at Abingdon, received the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal today at 2pm at the lock. He is one of only 3 Environment Agency staff on the Thames to be nominated for one. The medal was presented by Mark, the manager of the Upper Thames.
The medal was awarded for the lives Richard saved at the weir and lock.
Many congratulations – richly deserved!
well done
I was one of the people that Richard helped on the weir during lockdown. I found myself at a very low point hanging over the weir not wanting to face another disaster in my life. Richard took the time to talk and listen to me and it set me onto a path of help and support. I have left the area and don’t want to return to that place to say thank you so I’m saying it here. I’m now in a stable relationship and a beautiful daughter. People like him deserve such love and respect and I wasn’t surprised to hear he’s helped others. One day i would like to meet Richard again but he has a place in my heart for his kindness and not looking the other way when someone is in trouble.
He is a fantastic and dedicated man , you are so lucky to have him at Abingdon lock !
Well deserved Rich!