Mervyn Kersh receives the British Empire Medal at the Tower of London (and is interviewed by the BBC)

WWII veteran Mervyn Kersh received the British Empire Medal at the New Armouries in the Tower of London on Friday 10 April 2026. The honour for services to Holocaust education was presented by the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London, Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE.

We were delighted that one of our volunteer cab drivers was able to support Mervyn and his daughter, Lynne, on this special occasion, providing transport to the investiture ceremony and safely returning them home afterwards.

The event also received national attention, with BBC Breakfast reporter John McGuire in attendance to capture the moment. The feature was broadcast on Monday 13 April, allowing many more people to share in celebrating Mervyn’s well-deserved recognition.

Dick Goodwin, Vice President of the Taxi Charity, said: “We are absolutely delighted for Mervyn. Being awarded a British Empire Medal for services to Holocaust education is fitting recognition of his tireless commitment to ensuring the lessons of history are never forgotten. We are incredibly proud to see his dedication and impact recognised in this way and we send him our warmest congratulations.”

Photo Credit: Yui Mok, Press Association