Two Brits in Spain Awarded British Empire Medals
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Two Britons in Spain Awarded British Empire Medals
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Katherine mentink-Duncan and Terence Curran recognized for dedicated service to their communities.
What happened?
Katherine Mentink-Duncan, a former councillor in Calvià (mallorca), and Terence Curran, the commandant of the volunteer firefighting brigade in Jávea (Alicante), have been awarded british Empire medals (BEM) in the 2025 New Year Honours List. The awards acknowledge their significant contributions to the British community and public safety in Spain.
Katherine Mentink-Duncan: Serving British Nationals in Mallorca
Ms. Mentink-Duncan’s BEM recognizes her over 30 years of service to British nationals in Mallorca. Her work has encompassed addressing the concerns of British residents, collaborating with charities, and actively participating in local governance.
- Former Role: Councillor and Head of the Foreigners Department, Calvià Town Hall
- Community Involvement: President of Rotary Club Calvià, organizer of the International Inter Schools Debates
- Current Support: Actively supports ASDICA, a charity assisting people with disabilities and their families.
Terence Curran: Protecting Jávea Through Volunteer Firefighting
Mr. Curran receives his BEM for his decade-long leadership of a volunteer firefighting team in Jávea, a popular destination for British residents and tourists.His dedication extends beyond firefighting to include community education on fire prevention.
The volunteer brigade plays a crucial role in protecting a community with a significant British population, offering a vital service often found in larger, fully-funded fire departments.
Why This Matters: Recognizing Expatriate contributions
Thes awards highlight the valuable contributions made by British expatriates to their adopted communities in Spain. They demonstrate the strong ties between the UK and spain and the positive impact of individuals dedicated to serving others.
The British Empire Medal: A History and Meaning
The British Empire Medal (BEM) is a British award for meritorious civil or military service worthy of recognition by the Crown. Originally established in 1917, it has undergone revisions over the years. The current BEM, reinstated in 2012, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions at a local level.
| Award | Description | Established |
|---|---|---|
| British Empire Medal (BEM) | Recognizes meritorious civil or military service. | 1917 (revised 2012) |