A MAN from Denbighshire has been appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours for his dedication to public service.
Albert Deane, 77, from Llandrillo, was praised by the Cabinet Office for his “exceptional public service and profound contribution” to the peace and reconciliation process in Northern Ireland.
Mr Deane also served for more than a decade as an investigator with the Independent Commission for the Location of Victims’ Remains (ICLVR), prior to his retirement last June.
His role involved locating and recovering the remains of the "disappeared" - victims abducted, murdered, and secretly buried by republican paramilitaries.
He was a detective director with Cambridge Constabulary, who he served for more than 30 years, and later worked with the Historical Enquiries Team in Ireland.
Mr Deane and his wife moved to North Wales from Peterborough about 18 months ago.
He said: “It was a pleasant surprise to get this award of an MBE in recognition of the work I carried out in Ireland.
“It has been a huge privilege to have worked with the ICLVR, and especially to get to know the families of the disappeared.
“My heart goes out to those still waiting to have their loved ones found and returned for a Christian burial, but I know that the commission will do all they can to help bring this about.”
Mr Deane was one of 84 people from Wales to be celebrated in the King’s Birthday Honours list on June 13.
In total, 1,182 recipients were recognised this year for their achievements, with a particular focus on recognising community change-makers.
The Cabinet Office said of Mr Deane: “His tireless efforts brought the ultimate resolution, comfort, and the dignity to mourn for families who had endured decades of uncertainty and anguish, initiating a crucial healing process.
“He successfully earned the absolute trust of all involved, including families and forensic experts, by approaching the difficult work with unwavering respect, deep humanity, and unshakeable moral commitment, persevering despite his own personal health challenges.”
Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens, added: “The work of these inspirational individuals has a huge impact across Wales.
“I thank each and every one of them for their valuable contributions to Welsh society.”
