GMB president Mary Turner to be honoured with CBE for recognition to political service to the trade union movement
I am absolutely delighted that our Mary Turner, our inspirational president that truly exemplifies the very best our nation has to offer, will collect her well deserved CBE that was awarded to her last year says GMB London.
GMB National President, Mary Turner CBE, is to be honoured today, Thursday 16 March, for her political service particularly through the Trade Union movement. It is in recognition of her lifetimes work for trade union members in London and throughout the UK.
Mary will receive her CBE at Buckingham Palace that was awarded as part of the Queen’s Birthday Honours in June 2016 on the occasion of Her Majesty’s official 90th birthday.
Elected National President in 1997, Mary has been a union activist in the London borough of Brent for many years and has been prominent nationally as the President of the 640,000 strong GMB union. Mary also represents GMB on the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party.
Mary Turner was employed in the school dinner service in Brent and has been very prominent in the national campaign to retain nutritious school meals as a benefit to pupils education.
Mary was awarded an MBE from the Queen in the 2010 New Years honours list.
Mary Turner CBE said:
“I'm incredibly proud to be honoured with a CBE following my MBE in 2010.
“I've come a long way since being employed by Brent borough council working in school kitchens and my commitment to healthy eating and free school meals.
“Since then I've worked endlessly for the Trade Union movement and also my involvement with The Labour Party and battling the Tories and the challenges we all face.
“Being President of GMB has always been an honour and one that I will always cherish but to be informed I was on The Queens honours list was yet another achievement I am pleased to receive.”
Warren Kenny, GMB London regional secretary said:
“I am absolutely delighted that our Mary Turner, our inspirational president that truly exemplifies the very best our nation has to offer, will collect her well deserved CBE that was awarded to her last year.
“A servant to the people and hero of GMB, Mary has the respect and recognition of everyone in GMB, the wider Trade Union and labour movement as well as those from all political spheres.
“It is fantastic that the achievements of Mary, an extraordinary person, have been recognised by others.
“A tenacious and unflappable trade unionist, Mary combines toughness and caring and wins through against all the odds. She is known throughout the Labour movement for her indomitable stamina, kindness and compassion.
“On a personal note, I’ve known Mary for more than 30 years and I would like to thank her for the enormous service she has given to GMB and her tireless commitment to tackling injustice and unparalleled loyalty to our membership and wish her many congratulations on receiving the recognition she rightly deserves.”
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Contact: Warren Kenny on 07843 632394
