Dedicated Denbigh volunteer honoured with MBE After 40 years' service to road safety

• A lifelong commitment to safer roads earns IAM RoadSmart volunteer royal recognition

A self-confessed petrolhead from Denbigh, Wales has been named on the King’s New Year Honours list for his outstanding contributions to road safety.

Mike Redfern-Jones has spent more than 40 years volunteering for IAM RoadSmart, the UK’s leading road safety charity.

He has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his work which includes volunteering with the North Wales Group of Advanced Motorists as both Observer and Secretary.

Mike, who is an electrician, began volunteering after being inspired to give back after taking his Advanced Driver course with IAM RoadSmart in 1985. He made it is his mission to share his knowledge and experience to help other drivers stay safe on the roads.

The 62-year-old said: “I am a massive petrol head, love cars and motorsport, love driving, but after passing my driving test in 1981, I knew there was more to learn and that I could be a better and safer driver, and the advanced driving course was the answer.”

He later joined the North Wales Group of Advanced Motorists and took on roles as newsletter Editor and group Observer until 1994, when he was appointed group Secretary—a position he has proudly held ever since. As an Observer, Mike’s role includes guiding and supporting drivers, giving tips, feedback, and encouragement so they can become safer and more confident drivers or riders.

He said: “Volunteering with IAM RoadSmart has allowed me to give something back and to share what I’ve learned with others. As an Observer, it’s incredibly rewarding to guide and support drivers, build their confidence, and help them understand how small changes can make a big difference to their safety and the safety of others.

"After more than 40 years, I’m still passionate about helping people become safer drivers, because if we can reduce risk on the roads and help everyone get home safely, then that’s something truly worth dedicating your time to.”

Since passing his test, Mike says the roads have changed dramatically. He said: “Driving in the UK has changed beyond recognition over the last 40 years. We’ve gone from quieter roads and simple mechanics to a world of advanced technology, stricter enforcement, and far heavier traffic. Today’s drivers face challenges that were unimaginable decades ago – but they also benefit from innovations that make journeys safer and more efficient than ever."

For an image of Mike click here

ENDS

Notes to editors

For interviews, contact the IAM RoadSmart press office on press.office@iam.org.uk / 020 8996 9777

About IAM RoadSmart

IAM RoadSmart is the UK’s leading road safety charity providing advanced driver and rider training. We coach and educate road users, campaign for change and make journeys safer for everyone.

IAM RoadSmart was formed in March 1956 and has around 70,000 members and 5,000 volunteers that support its campaigns on road safety. At any one time there are more than 7,000 drivers and riders actively engaged with IAM RoadSmart’s courses.

To find out more about IAM RoadSmart go to: www.iamroadsmart.com

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