Royal treat for veteran Preston fundraiser

2:39pm Thursday 17th July 2008

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A Preston man who has helped to raise money for ex-servicemen for more than three decades was recognised for his efforts by being invited to the Queen's garden party on Tuesday.

Michael Turner, the 73-year-old chairman of the Lostock Hall British Legion organisation, has raised funds through poppy appeals since 1975.

Mr Turner, who lives in Penwortham, spent the day in the gardens of Buckingham Palace with his wife Edith, 71.

He said: “It was a wonderful day and the weather was beautiful, we had a really lovely time and we even got a close look at the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.

“It was a great feeling being so close to them and there were people there from all walks of life.”

The father-of-two who is expecting his first grandchild in December, organises poppy appeals across the county while working part-time as a chef at the Crown Lee retirement complex in Penwortham.

Mr Turner, who served in the Royal Air Force as a cook between 1955 and 1958, added: “The day was lovely and I was so honoured to have been invited.

"My family are so proud that my work with the British Legion has been recognised.

"I am just interested in helping people and looking after ex-servicemen.”

About 8,000 guests attend the garden parties which have been held at Buckingham Palace since the 1860s.