Trident Honda Managing Director Richard Roberts Awarded British Empire Medal

We are proud to announce that Richard Roberts, Managing Director of Trident Honda, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in His Majesty The King's Birthday Honours List 2026, for Services to Charitable Causes.

The award recognises more than three decades of voluntary service, fundraising and community leadership across Surrey, during which Richard has helped raise significant sums for local charities and supported countless community organisations.

A longstanding supporter and Trustee of Woking & Sam Beare Hospice, Richard has been involved with the charity since the early 1990s and, together with his family and supporters, has helped raise more than £250,000 for hospice care. He has also played a leading role in many of the area's best-known fundraising events, including the Woking Bikeathon, Dragon Boat Races, Midnight Walk, Swimathon and Downslink Challenge.

Alongside his charitable work, Richard has served as a school governor, Deputy Chair of Governors at Halstead School, President of Knaphill Athletic Football Club and a long-standing supporter of Woking Rotary Club, receiving the prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship in recognition of his contribution to the local community.

Richard said:

I am incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this award. The causes I have been fortunate enough to support over the years have always been about people and communities. None of the achievements recognised by this honour were accomplished by one person. They have only been possible because of the dedication of volunteers, fundraisers, supporters, businesses, charities and friends who have worked together to make a difference. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me over the years, particularly my family, colleagues, friends and the many charitable organisations I have had the privilege to work alongside. This honour belongs to all of them as much as it does to me.

Richard has enjoyed a distinguished career in the motor industry spanning more than 40 years. He currently serves as Managing Director of Trident Honda and has held numerous leadership positions within the National Franchised Dealers Association, where he has worked to support retailers and employees throughout the UK automotive sector.

Friends and colleagues describe Richard as someone who has spent a lifetime bringing people together to support good causes and who has never sought recognition for his efforts.

The British Empire Medal is awarded by His Majesty The King in recognition of meritorious service to the community and public life.