NW trio toast Birthday Honours

THE bosses of two of the region’s best-known businesses and a leading lawyer have been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

James Timpson, from Cheshire, who runs the family-owned Manchester-based shoe repairs and keycutting business, received the OBE for services to training and employment for disadvantaged people.

James is the third member of the family to receive an honour. His father John was awarded the CBE in 2004 for services to retail, while his mother Alex, was given an MBE in 2006 for her work as a foster parent.

Mr Timpson junior’s award recognises a pioneering training scheme in prisons which he had led, and which has offered a second chance and hopes of employment to offenders.

The second other North West success story is John Winnard, the boss of Wigan confectionery company Uncle Joe’s Mint Balls, who was awarded an MBE.

The honour, comes in recognition of his outstanding services to the UK food manufacturing industry.

The joint managing director of family firm Uncle Joe’s,  has been praised for his work in developing international trade opportunities for SMEs and his efforts to support economic growth in the region.

He said: “It’s great to be recognised. I think it is important in business that you are prepared to share your experience and hopefully inspire someone else to take up a challenge and be successful.

“The Uncle Joe’s brand has inspired us to develop the company – over 110 years of mint ball production teaches you a lot.”

Meanwhile, Maurice Watkins, a partner at law firm Brabners Chaffe Street, and a director of Manchester United, has been awarded a CBE for his fundraising efforts as chairman of the Fundraising Board at Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Charity which raises money for five hospitals including Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.