It was announced in the 2018 New Year’s Honours list that Robert James will be awarded the British Empire Medal.  This is in recognition of over 50 years of voluntary service to the charity of the Town & Manor of Hungerford.

In these years Robert has undertaken a wide variety of roles, including Constable from 1978-80 and Commons Secretary for over 25 years.  His commitment to looking after the land owned by the charity has seen careful management of Hungerford Common Port Down, Freeman’s Marsh and the more recent purchase of Hungerford Marsh.  The care of the charity and land has all been with the aim of benefiting Hungerford as a whole and Robert’s work in the area continues this day.

The Town & Manor is an ancient charity based in Hungerford which owns and manages a 400+ acre estate which includes Hungerford Common, the Town Hall and five miles of fishing on the Rivers Kennet and Dun. The charity aims to generate a surplus each year and to use the funds to maintain the historic buildings and traditions of Hungerford. It also supports other local charities through donations.