A Wallingford stalwart is reflecting on the pride and amazement he feels at receiving an MBE in this year’s honours.

Mark Brett, who is at the helm of town charities and events, received a letter from the Cabinet Office and honours committee three weeks ago, informing him that he was listed to become a Member of the Order of the British Empire.

This was in recognition of his services to charity and community in Wallingford.

Mr Brett is chairman of the charity Wallingford 1155, the town’s annual vehicle rally event and the director of BunkFest.

In addition to this, he also runs his own business and describes himself as a family man.

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Wallingford 1155 runs a host of initiatives around the town including litter picks and annual events such as fireworks and a Santa’s sleigh initiative.

Each year, Mr Brett aims for these many ventures to collectively raise as much as possible, averaging at least £50,000 every year.

Mr Brett said: “It really is an honour and feels amazing getting an MBE. No words can describe how privileged I feel.

“I’m always doing things in between work.

"I’m good with time management and delegating tasks and responsibilities too, such as assigning volunteers to help with a bonfire build, bucket collection or litter pick.

“I must issue huge thanks to everyone else who makes our many events and appeals happen. Wallingford has an amazing community and without them we couldn’t do all that we do.

Oxford Mail: Mark Brett is the director of the BunkFest festival in Wallingford Mark Brett is the director of the BunkFest festival in Wallingford (Image: BunkFest)

“Even with restrictions in place during Covid, we still all found a way to get things done. I also have a very understanding and supportive family and I’m grateful to them.”

Mr Brett’s charitable ethos stems from his family, particularly his parents who were involved with charity projects during his childhood.

Since then, he has always wished to follow in their footsteps.

He also sadly lost his older brother to a car accident when he was a teenager, a tragedy he says that taught him how precious life is.

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Mr Brett said: “Over the years, I’ve seen how much confidence and friendship can grow from volunteering and being involved with charity – these are the attributes I’d always hope to help develop, as well as ensuring people have great fun.  

“My mum and dad were heavily involved with Round Table, fundraising and helping in their communities.

"Tragically losing my brother really showed me how quickly life can be snatched away from any of us so I’ve always want to continue doing great things.”

He added: “Having an MBE now doesn’t mean anything stops, it means everything carries on as normal.

"I love what I do and have always wanted to be role model and this remains the same going forward."