450 ‘Covid Heroes’ have been invited to the ceremony of King Charles III next month to be held at Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace revealed.

On May 6, individuals who were awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in recognition of their efforts during lockdown will join the 2,000 selected to attend the ‘once in a lifetime’ ceremony.

This includes local Finchampstead resident, Richard Thomas who delivered 10,000 prescriptions to members of the community when Matt Hancock released his call to action during the Covid pandemic.

Mr Thomas became one of the recipients of a British Empire Medal in the 2021 New Years Honours List for his work.

He explained: “I received my invite via email last week and I was so surprised, but it’s been incredible. I believe I received it primarily for my Covid work where I delivered 10,000 prescriptions and also for my history of public service.

“I was elected as a constituent of Bracknell Forest Council 40 years ago where I served the community for 16 years. I’ve also owned quite a few pharmacies across the region.

“When Matt Handcock told people that their local pharmacy would deliver to them, and two of our village pharmacies didn’t have a delivery driver I decided to pitch in. At that time my day job became my evening and weekend job, and I spent five days a week delivering prescriptions.”

Incidentally, the day of the coronation (6/5) will mark Richard’s 40th anniversary in public service when he was elected to Bracknell Forest Council.

As well as Covid Heroes and MBE recipients, other invitees include representatives from many of the King's charity affiliations and a large cross section from the voluntary sector.

The number invited to attend has been whittled down to 2,000 and includes public figures and politicians from across the globe as well as members of the Royal Family.

Richard added: “It’ll be quite an experience and I’m delighted to be invited. There are only 2,000 people going, so it’s quite an honour to be invited to this once in a lifetime affair.”