Debbie Buck, a lead nurse for practice development in Bedfordshire, received the British Empire Medal (BEM) during a ceremony at Northampton County Hall. The ceremony was presided over by James Saunders Watson – HM Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire.

Debbie was awarded a BEM in the Queen's New Years’ Honours announced in January this year in recognition of her work in response to the COVID pandemic.

Debbie developed a warehouse and formed a team to deliver vital Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) to NHS colleagues to keep them safe and enable them to continue providing vital care and support.  She also helped prepare trainers to deliver essential training to NHS staff. 

Debbie thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. She said,

"I received the medal in a small ceremony alongside five other recipients and their guests. The Lord Lieutenant read out a summary of the citation, which was a very humbling experience. I received the framed certificate and a boxed medal, which is engraved with my name on the ridge. It was a fantastic experience and one I will remember for a very long time."