A LEADERSHIP coach who lost his wife in a fatal car accident has been honoured with a prestigious award.

Neil Jurd, who used to live in Grange and now resides in Kendal, has been recognised with the coveted British Citizen Award (BCA). Mr Jurd is one of 26 people from across the UK to be given the award which recognises exceptional people who positively impact their communities.

He is honoured with a BCAv for his Services to Volunteering.

In 2009, Mr Jurd lost his wife Michelle Jurd, a former RAF officer, to a fatal car accident, changing his and their two daughters lives forever.

Mrs Jurd believed in living life to the full and in her memory, Mr Jurd set up and founded the Michelle Jurd Trust.

The trust is founded on Mrs Jurd's ethos for life, making memories and adventure, giving opportunities to thousands of young people and supporting veterans in need.

The charity has successfully raised hundreds of thousands for several charities, local schools and the development of person growth of young people through the North West through support and funding adventurous training.

As well as this, Mr Jurd held the position of Commandant of Lancashire Army Cadet Force for five years, helping to transform the lives of hundreds of young adults. He also created the charity ‘Friends of Lancashire Army Cadets’ which helped disadvantaged cadets.

For the first time in its history, Mr Jurd and the remaining 25 medallists have received their BCA medals by courier, together with a video message from some of the Patrons and an invitation to the House of Lords at a date yet to be determined, when it is safe to do so.