THREE Caerphilly residents have been honoured with the British Empire Medal for outstanding services to the community.

David Curtis, of Oakdale, received the award for voluntary and charitable services during the formal proceedings which saw Her Majesty The Queen's representative for the County of Gwent, The Lord-Lieutenant, Mr. Simon Boyle present the medal at Caerphilly Borough Council’s headquarters at Penallta House.

Mr Curtis has been a member of Pontllanfraith Rotary Club for more than 25 years and is an advocate for youth services promoting and organising events. In 2013/14 he was elected the organisation’s District Governor. He is a keen fundraiser and raises awareness for polio eradication., travelling to India to see how the money is spent.

John Geraint Evans, was honoured for his services to music and charity. The former pupil of the Welsh College of Music and Drama and Monmouthshire Teachers Training College became Conductor and Musical Director for Aber Valley Male Voice Choir in 1971. Under his leadership the choir has grown to 55 members who regularly perform locally and nationally and tour extensively abroad raising funds for charity, school's and churches.

Retired nurse and dedicated volunteer for more than 50 years Rita Evans of Abercarn was also honoured.

Mrs Evans helped to set up a community café in Abercarn, sat on the committee leading the restoration of Newbridge Memorial Hall and is secretary of her Chapel- New Bethal. In 2013 she was named supreme volunteer of the year by Caerphilly Council.

Lord-Lieutenant Mr. Simon Boyle, said, "The three individuals honoured today have demonstrated a tremendous record of service. All contributing in very different ways, they have each achieved a huge amount to their communities.”