Queens Birthday Honours

Bro George Parker MBE

George Gottleib Parker, of St Elli Lodge, was honoured for services to business and community in Llanelli, while Paul David Harries, of Trevor Kelway Lodge, was recognised for services to engineering and employment in west Wales.

The two businessmen are also big supporters of community life in Llanelli and have helped countless charitable causes down the years.

Both Mr Parker and Mr Harries spoke of their delight at being honoured by Her Majesty The Queen.

Mr Parker, 72, who has an MSc in Civil Engineering & Management and is a Fellow of the Institute of Civil Engineering said: “This may sound corny, but I’ve never forgotten my roots. I grew up in Cefncaeau, Llwynhendy, and I was lucky enough to get a place in the old Llanelli Boys Grammar School. I worked hard and set up Parker Plant hire in 1981.

Mr Parker added: “It was a surprise but also a great honour to receive the award. I have been in business a long time. I found out in June that I had been put forward and from then on I had to keep quiet.”

Mr Parker joins his wife, Elizabeth, in being a recipient of the MBE.

Bro Paul Harries MBE

Mr Harries, 59, is CEO of Harries Automation and Control Limited (HAC Group), based in Trostre, Llanelli.

He said: “I am honoured, overwhelmed and truly delighted to accept this award. This can only have been achieved by the support of many years from my special family and the staff at HAC Group who have played an integral part of this accomplishment.”

In building and driving the business, Mr Harries has been the inspirational leader of the team. As a former college lecturer, his links with education meant he was willing to promote and provide a selfless mentoring service to the many employees and students that have benefitted from his passionate guidance.

The Queen’s birthday honours were delayed this year because of the coronavirus crisis. With 1,495 people honoured in total, this year’s list is particularly extensive and includes many who have worked tirelessly in the campaign to keep Covid19 in check.