Marguerite Talmage has been presented with the British Empire Medal for services to the community in Guernsey.

Mrs Marguerite Talmage has been volunteering in Guernsey for more than 50 years.

She has helped St Peter’s win six gold medals for floral displays in local and national competitions.

She stood as a parish official and founded the therapy dog charity Wellbeing Animals Guernsey.

After joining the board of Guernsey’s Rural Occupational Workshop (GROW) in 2018, she led a fundraiser to enable the charity's new site to be developed, securing more than £2M.

Mrs Talmage says volunteering is a family trait.

"Both my parent were very involved in community matters.

Guernsey is a great place to live and think we can all give something back to it.

The charities I work with have great teams. We have a lot of fun working together, and it is just something that is very worthwhile."

Her dedication to the community got her a place on the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours List.

She received the British Empire Medal at Government House last night (6 February).

Talking about the evening, she says it was 'a lovely and special occasion'.

"Quite overwhelming really because there were about 60 guests, I walked into the room with the Lieutenant Governor, the citation was read, and then His Excellency pinned my award onto my dress."

Mrs Marguerite Talmage with colleagues from Welfare Animals Guernsey at Government House

His Excellency, Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell commented:

"Mrs Talmage’s vision and resourcefulness have enriched the lives of countless Islanders.

I was delighted to present her with the British Empire Medal on behalf of His Majesty The King, in recognition of her tireless work both in her parish and more broadly across Guernsey’s third sector."