One OF the founders of Malpas's Barlows Electricals is celebrating after a trip to Buckingham Palace to pick up his Member of the British Empire (MBE) last month.

David Barlow was awarded his MBE for services to youth apprenticeships as part of Queen Elizabeth's birthday honours in June, 2019.

On Friday, February 12, Mr Barlow took a trip to London to pick up his medal from Prince Charles, and admitted his delight at the award.

“Myself and my family had a wonderful time at Buckingham Palace," he said.

"It was a great pleasure meeting Prince Charles who showed excellent understanding of apprenticeships.”

On finding out he had received the honour last year, Mr Barlow said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this award for my work training young people,” he said.

“There is no doubt that if you’re taking on a 16-year-old they are going to need more support. I believe you must really care about the young people you bring in and be interested in them.

“Get to know them personally, build a bond and retain that bond all the way through their early professional life.

“Business leaders have a responsibility to give young people the best start in life.”

Since 2010, he has been part of SummitSkills, the government standards setting organisation for the Building Services Industry that works to develop and maintain standards, qualifications and apprenticeships for the whole of the UK.

He continues to promote the advantages of apprentice and graduate opportunities in the North West and continues to judge the Cheshire and Warrington Apprentice of the Year for the High Sheriff Awards.

He also presents the award for Apprentice Company of the Year at the Cheshire Business Awards. David has been elected Chair of the Electrical Standards and Governance Group which oversees the Electrical Apprenticeships in England.

He has won more 20 major accolades, including national awards, and he has been received at Buckingham Palace and 10 Downing Street, championing skills opportunities for young people.

He is a three times winner of the National Apprenticeship Awards and has received the High Sheriff of Cheshire Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Economy of Cheshire and the Business Community, presented to him by the Lord-Lieutenant of Cheshire in 2017.

He has also won the Cheshire Business Person of the Year in 2015 to compliment his Cheshire Business Leaders Award in 2013.

In 2015 he was also awarded an Honorary Degree at the University of Chester for his commitment to Training and Skills across Cheshire and Warrington.

David is a supporter of the British Empire Chapel Fund, a friend of Chester Cathedral, a member of Chester Archaeological Society, Whitchurch 41 Club and Cheshire Business Leaders.

He is a lifetime member of Kent County Cricket Club, a Shareholder in Everton Football Club and a Trustee of Malpas Jubilee Hall.

He is currently assisting Barlows (UK) Ltd. at their new branch in High Wycombe.