Merseyside Police employees recognised in King's Birthday Honours

MERSEYSIDE Police have said that they are:- "delighted to confirm that 1 of Force's Officers and a member of support staff have been recognised in the King's Birthday honours."

We are told that:- Hazel Fothergill, Executive Assistant to Chief Constable, has been awarded an MBE for Services to Policing and that Constable Mark Hobin has also received an MBE for Services to Policing.

Chief Constable Kennedy said:- "I am so pleased that Hazel has been given this honour, which is so well deserved. Since joining the force Hazel has supported five Chief Constables and has demonstrated unparalleled dedication, efficiency and professionalism, whilst at the same time adapting to our individual styles and policing strategies. She has also supported me and my predecessors in managing our NPCC Coordination Committee roles including Crime and Prevention. This requires a high level of additional commitment and knowledge which she always manages comprehensively, whilst remaining approachable. Her role also requires extensive liaison with government departments and ministerial teams. Renowned nationally for her competence and dedication to communities Hazel uses her knowledge to mentor others across the country aspiring to make a difference."

On receiving news the honour Hazel, said:- "I am absolutely delighted to receive this award. The role of an Executive Assistant often happens behind the scenes, making it difficult to fully capture its impact. That's why this recognition is so meaningful; not just for me, but for all my EA colleagues. It highlights the vital contributions we make every day, and I'm grateful that our work is being acknowledged in this way. I feel privileged to have spent the past 17 years with Merseyside Police in a role I thoroughly enjoy. While the position has certainly presented its challenges, I have always felt respected by the Chief Constables I have served under. In return, I have been proud to support and advise them, enabling them to focus on the key issues affecting both the force and the communities of Merseyside."

Also nominated in the King's Birthday Honours is Police Constable Mark Hobin, who joined Merseyside Police 22 years ago.

Chief Constable Kennedy said:- "Mark is 1 of those incredible people who has dedicated a huge portion of his life and service to supporting others through his charitable work. His selfless contribution throughout the last 15 years has been amazing and in that time he has raised more than £1million for charities and community organisations including Portico Vine ARLFC, the Doyle Phillips Foundation, Great Britain Police Rugby League Association, the force's Baby Loss Peer Support Group, Miscarriage Association and Care of Police Survivors. Mark started his charitable work following the death of his colleague Sgt Darren Southern 15 years ago and since then the funds that he has raised has supported and helped so many others and it is fitting that he has received this award."

On receiving his award, Mark said:- "I'm incredibly proud and deeply honoured to have been awarded an MBE in His Majesty The King's Birthday Honours list. Over the last 22 years, policing has taught me the values of teamwork, camaraderie, respect, discipline, compassion and inclusion. It has helped me overcome challenges, deal with tragedy and celebrate success. Above all it has taught me about the power of community spirit and cohesion. So much of this honour reflects the people I have worked and volunteered alongside; too many to mention personally but they know who they are. From colleagues involved in POPS policing to my fellow committee members within Portico Vine ARLFC, the Doyle Phillips Foundation and the Great Britain Police Rugby League Association embers through to all those who make up the Baby Loss Peer Support Group, the Miscarriage Association and Care of Police Survivors; each have played a special part in my life. I've always believed in the power of ‘giving back to others' and this award is a humbling reminder that those values truly matter; more so than ever. I share this recognition with everybody who has stood beside me during some of the most challenging jobs we've had to deal with in force and to my fellow volunteers who have made a real impact fundraising and bettering the lives of others in our local communities. Above all, thank you to my amazing family for affording me the unwavering time to support others. This is a moment my family and I will treasure forever."

Merseyside's Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell added:- "Hazel's MBE is testament to her exceptional service, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to policing. Her ability to adapt, whilst supporting five different Chief Constables, her dedication to mentoring others, and her seamless work with government departments reflects the very best of public service. Constable Mark Hobin's MBE is a fitting tribute to a career defined by compassion, dedication, and extraordinary community spirit. For more than two decades, he has gone above and beyond the call of duty, raising vast amounts of money for charities and support groups that touch the lives of so many and it's only right that his tireless efforts, and selfless contributions are recognised at the highest level. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to both Hazel and Mark on their richly deserved recognition in His Majesty the King's Birthday Honours."

Tickets on sale for Southport Summer Soirée at Meols Hall in Churchtown raising funds for Bebe's Hive

THE countdown has begun; tickets for the highly anticipated Southport Summer Soirée are now available! Set against the stunning backdrop of Meols Hall, Churchtown, this enchanting event promises an afternoon of elegance and generosity, all in support of Bebe's Hive, a sanctuary for young hearts navigating loss through creativity and care.

Mark your calendars for:- Sunday, 24 August 2025, from:- 3pm, as Southport gathers to celebrate compassion, community, and the enduring legacy of Bebe King a cherished pupil of Marshside Primary School. Bebe's Hive, hosted by the Elsie's Story Charitable Trust, transforms grief into hope, providing essential resources, training, and healing sessions for children in need.

Organised by a powerhouse of local businesses including:- Dorothy Mae Design, Farrington Law, Little Sparks Southport, Lucy Lou's Boutique, and Simon Ford Jewellery; this soirée is set to be a dazzling affair. Your attendance fuels the mission, ensuring every child who walks through Bebe’s Hive finds solace, support, and a space to heal.

Secure your spot at this heartfelt celebration today by booking your tickets online at:- LittlesParksSouthport.Co.UK..

The event is organised by:- Dorothy Mae Design; Farrington Law; Little Sparks Southport; Lucy Lou's Boutique; and Simon Ford Jewellery. 

They said:- "Round up your friends, pick your outfits, and get ready for the party of the summer; food, drinks, live music, surprise acts & more, all in aid of Bebe's Hive. We are forever grateful to each and everyone that's supporting this event and going to make this day 1 to remember."

Bebe's Hive added:- "Bebe's Hive is a grief informed, creative support project for children and families; built in memory of our beautiful 6 year old Bebe. After losing her, we saw how deeply grief affects children. We also saw what was missing: a safe, child led space for healing. So we began building one. Rooted in love, creativity, and connection. Bebe's Hive offers free sessions using art, music, play, and storytelling to help children explore grief safely and gently. Led by a team of educators, creatives, and wellbeing practitioners; all who knew and loved Bebe. It's a space full of care and hope. Your donation will help us launch: Volunteer training, Safeguarding, Room hire and Resources for our f1st sessions. All funds are ring fenced via Elsie's Story Charitable Trust and used solely for Bebe's Hive. Thank you for helping Bebe's light shine on."