Proud Bob Church awarded well-deserved MBE

Angling legend Bob Church described the moment he received his MBE at Buckingham Palace as one of his ‘proudest moments ever’.
Bob received the prestigious accolade for his services to angling during an incredible career as one of the most decorated fly fishers in UK history and one of the most passionate, enthusiastic and best-loved anglers this country has ever produced.
His medal tally includes team golds at the World Fly Fishing Championships in 1987 and 1988, plus a European team gold in 1990 – and Bob was also a regular contributor to Angling Times for more than 28 years.
It certainly was a day to remember for the founder member of the Northamptonshire Specimen Group, who travelled to Buckingham Palace with his wife Jeanette, daughter Nicola and son Stephen where he was presented his award by the Princess Royal.
“It was so surreal to be with my family in the ballroom at Buckingham Palace, surrounded by others from so many other walks of life, including those receiving knighthoods for services in Afghanistan – and there was little old me about to get an MBE.
“I felt so proud,” he said.