Cllr Patrick Vernon was recognised for his work in the health sector

A Hackney politician who was recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for his work in the health sector collected his OBE last week.

Cllr Patrick Vernon, Labour councillor in Queensbridge, has worked tirelessly to combat health inequalities for black and minority ethnic communities across London.

In the last 20 years, Cllr Vernon has held a number of posts in various health organisations including a non executive director role for East London and the City Health Authority and Chair of City and Hackney Drugs Action Team.

He is also a former non executive director for City and East London Health Authority.

Last week, the 51-year-old was accompanied by his proud parents to collect his OBE at Buckingham Palace.

Dedicating his award to Avis and Norris Vernon, who are originally from Jamaica, he said: “They were part of the Windrush Generation and made a lot of personal sacrifices in coming to Britain and raising my four sisters and I.

“It is also great to receive this award which also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Independence of Jamaica.”

Cllr Vernon, who was recently appointed as a committee member of Healthwatch England which will be the new consumer voice for the NHS and social care, added: “I hope that I will be in the position to use my OBE to further advance these issues and promote my experiences as a leader to support others wishing to develop their career