Occold-based Framlingham business owner’s BEM in New Year’s Honours list dedicated to late wife

A businessman has dedicated his British Empire Medal to his late wife after being recognised in the New Year’s Honours list.

Bill Bulstrode was named as a Medallist of the Order of the British Empire (BEM) for services to the community, having played an active role in the life of Framlingham for half a century.

The 70-year-old, who runs a toy and carpet fitting shop in the town, said he was lost for words at the news, and said his wife of 43 years, Teresa, would have been proud.

“I will accept this award in memory of Teresa, who died two years ago,” he said. “She would have been absolutely thrilled.

“I’m very humbled and honoured. Words fail me. I’ve had lots of messages of support and have had people coming into the shop to say I deserve it, which is amazing.”

Over the years, Mr Bulstrode, who runs Bulstrode’s in Bridge Street, has helped to put up decorations and bunting for royal events, including weddings, as well as the Olympic Games and Christmas.

He regularly picks up litter, has swept the streets and allowed the local post office branch to temporarily relocate to the back of his shop after it was flooded by Storm Babet.

The father-of-two, from Occold, said he was only too happy to lend a helping hand if it benefits the town.

“Recently, we’ve had no-one cleaning the streets so we’ve been doing our bit around the shop,” he said. “We want to do more and we will do more.

“I love the town. I was born and bred in Framlingham and just want to see it get back to where it was.

“My sons are very proud and, while I don’t do what I do for rewards, I’m delighted to be recognised in this way.”

As part of the honour, Mr Bulstrode will attend a royal garden party later in the year.

He will be presented with his medal by Clare, Countess of Euston (pictured), the Lord-Lieutenant of Suffolk, on a separate occasion.