July 2018
Royal day for foster carer A VETERAN foster carer has spoken of the day she met Prince William and was awarded an MBE for her long service and dedication to fostering. Cath Gullen, 67, of Mansfield Woodhouse, who has been fostering for more than 30 years, was awarded the medal in the main ballroom at Buckingham Palace. She said: “I was honoured to be named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours but I don’t think of the award being just for me — it is for all foster carers who do such an amazing job.” Cath was out when the letter arrived with her invitation to the palace and her husband, Stuart, rang her to come home and read it. “I was in shock and had to read it two or three times,” she said. “An old friend put me forward and I was so nervous, but I have enjoyed all of it. “People have stopped me in the street and congratulated me. I hope this award can bring fostering to the fore and encourage more people to think about it.” Cath added: “Buckingham Palace couldn’t have made us more welcome. “Prince William had already spoken to around 50 other recipients, but he made me feel like I was the only one in the room with his interest and his questions about fostering. It was a wonderful day. “Fostering is part of my life and I have
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CATH Gullen with her award. enjoyed it all. There have been difficult times, but working with young people and seeing them adapt has been rewarding. (Continued on page 5)
Community Noticeboard Page 3 Cycling event returning to Mansfield Page 7 Trailblazing minister makes history Page 9
Knitted poppy appeal Page 11 Nurse wins top award Page 13 Woodhouse author’s column Page 15 Sport Page 16