A Bradford man who takes the Northern name into the local community has been honoured in the King’s New Year’s Honours List.

Richard Isaac, 54, works for the train operating company and was awarded a British Empire Medal in recognition of an outstanding contribution to communities across Yorkshire.

Richard is a regional community and sustainability manager and is based in Leeds. His work spearheads Northern‘s connections with schools, community groups and station adoption schemes.

He is a firm believer in connecting communities with employment and education opportunities through the use of train services.  He also works hard to tackle social isolation and crime though the National Citizen Service (NCS).

Richard said: “It is a great honour to be included in King Charles’ New Year’s Honours List. Although I have received this award, I feel it is a reflection of everyone at Northern’s commitment to communities across the north.

“I would like to thank the Northern leadership team and our fantastic staff volunteers from across the business. Without such an amazing team behind me my work would not be possible.”

Tricia Williams, chief operating officer at Northern, added: “This is amazing news and everyone at Northern is so very proud of Richard.  He is a brilliant part of the team here at Northern and throughout his career he has made a huge difference to the communities we serve.”