Local Heroes

community Local Heroes...

Sue Catterall MBE

Michelle Harvey nominated Sue Catterall MBE, a volunteer Sea Cadet and member of the Royal British Legion, as a local hero.

Michelle said: “I have known Sue for a couple of years now, she is involved heavily with the local Royal British Legion, heading up their Poppy Appeal every year. Sue also runs the local Sea Cadets in Orpington, giving local kids out of school activities and learning vital life skills. Sue is such a kind person; she always has a friendly smile for everyone and is a very humble person, and there is a lot more about her, I am just having difficulty finding it out.”

Congratulations on the nomination Sue! How do you feel about Michelle’s nomination?

I was quite taken aback to think Michelle could do such a kind gesture. I am dedicated to my volunteering groups and I didn’t think any more about rewards because it shows on the faces of those we help along their way.

Can you provide some background on your community and volunteer involvement?

I worked for 24 years in Orpington’s Peacocks and I’m now retired. I joined the British Legion in 1996 and I later volunteered with the Poppy Appeal 2011 as a stall volunteer. In 2019 I took over as Poppy Appeal Honorary Organiser and I have a magnificent team of volunteers working alongside me. Without them, Poppy Appeal would not happen. Tesco Orpington lets us have a stall in their foyer for two weeks in November, as does the Walnuts Shopping Centre. In November 2021 we raised £38,923.63 for the Poppy Appeal. I also joined the RBL Women’s Section in 2015 and two years later I took on the job as treasurer, which I still hold.

We understand you also run the local Sea Cadets in Orpington. How did that come about and what does it offer young children?

I joined Potters Bar Sea Cadets 1965 and stayed there for four years. One of my highlights from that time was going to Old Covent Garden Market for a book launch of Sir Alex Rose on his round the world solo voyage. I met Sir Edward Heath there. In 1977 I moved to Clacton and took up the post as a 3rd Officer and later I took up a post with the Orpington unit where I became Commanding Officer. There has been lots of highlights from my time there including seeing cadets challenging and establishing themselves. One cadet, a large lad, was uncertain of getting into a canoe. It took 30 mins to build up his confidence up and get into his canoe; he then took off and never looked back for the rest of the day. I retired from uniform in 2005 as a Lieutenant and went on to the main committee. I now hold the post of Vice-Chairman. My MBE was awarded to me in 2018. I went with my daughter, two grandsons and a very close friend of mine to Buckingham Palace to receive it from Prince William for 40 years volunteering with Sea Cadets. All Sea Cadet Staff and committee members are all 100% volunteers.

Why was it important for you to get involved in both the Royal British Legion and the Sea Cadets?

I believe strongly in the youth of our future and helping them to become responsible citizens. The RBL has a lot to offer all our Armed Forces and I will continue to raise funds for a worthy cause. We have a monthly meeting in our headquarters, Church Hill, as well as all sorts of functions.

What is it you love most about our local area? And how important are community schemes and

local charities do you think?

I love to take walks around Orpington with a friend most Sundays. In these trying times it is good to get out and about. Local charities are important to keep on going to help all ages of people in and around Orpington. Community schemes are a good thing as well as they keep us informed about what is available to all.

Sue at Time For Flowers

A special ‘Thank You’ to Time For Flowers for sponsoring the bouquets for our Local Heroes.