Marlow community hero's family presented with MBE after passing away not receiving award

Marlow man, John Chapman was named on the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List in 2020 for his services to the community but the Covid-19 pandemic delayed the ceremony.

He was due to be given his award at Buckingham Palace in May that year, joined by his three daughters, from Australia, the USA and the UK.

Unfortunately, the pandemic caused the presentation to be postponed.

It was then arranged for the Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire to award him with his MBE at a ceremony in the town during Remembrance Week in 2020.

However, the day before the event the country went into lockdown again.

John Chapman MBE

In early January 2021, John was taken ill and admitted to Wexham Park Hospital with arrangements made to bestow him with the award but sadly he died before it took place.

His family has now been finally presented with the award at a ceremony on Monday (June 27) at the Marlow Royal British Legion.

The award was given by the Lord Lieutenant, Lady Howe in the presence of invited guests.

It was followed by a service of thanksgiving at All Saints Parish to which the wider community and friends from the global rowing community, here for the Henley Regatta, were invited.

John, who was originally from Newport Pagnell, played a huge part in making Marlow the town you see today.

He played an important role in the town getting their annual late-night Christmas shopping event at the start of December, as well as being the president of the town’s Rowing Club, which has seen many big names produced such as Sir Steve Redgrave.

Many will know him from reciting the Kohima on Remembrance Sunday as president of Marlow British Legion.

John Chapman

When moving to the town, John saw himself to be a governor at Great Marlow School, and the president of the Chamber of Trade whilst also being a trustee of and fundraiser for the Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance, charities he held close to his heart.

Following his retirement from the Marlow Chamber of Commerce, he continued to take a great interest in the town’s businesses offering his help with his extensive knowledge of the town.

As well as a church treasurer, John became a founder member of the Chilterns Prostate Cancer Support Group, which helps newly diagnosed men and their loved ones to come to terms with the disease.

He was also a trustee and regular helper at Marlow Age Concern, which provides much-needed fellowship, activities and meals for dozens of elderly folk each week.