9:00am Saturday 28th November 2009
By James Pennicott
AN ELSTREE charity worker this week received an OBE from the Queen at Buckingham Palace.
Father-of-three Simon Winters, former CEO of charity Jewish National Fund (JNF), was honoured on Thursday for his 15 years of service from 1992 to 2007 in the voluntary sector.
During his time there, Mr Winters organised events at Windsor Castle and the Knesset – Israel’s parliament.
He co-ordinated speakers such as King Hussein of Jordan, the Duke of Edinburgh, President Bill Clinton and prime ministers from Israel.
Mr Winters said after the ceremony: “Today was a remarkable experience that I will never forget.
“I feel honoured and humbled at the same time and also very excited after so many years working in the voluntary sector of the Jewish Community.”
He said he was shocked when he was given notice of the award.
“It was totally unexpected. I had to read the letter I received three times before it sunk in.”
Gail Seal, former JNF president said: "Simon was the most successful CEO and earned the respect and admiration of all those who worked with him.
“This is a well deserved distinction and a fitting tribute to all that he achieved.”
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