After 20 years at National Highways, Birmingham-based asset manager Frank Bird is heading into well-earned retirement. After playing a major role in keeping our roads safe, Frank was awarded an MBE in July’s King’s Birthday Honours List.
The 65-year old has made significant contributions it the agency’s operations including the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the 2012 Olympics and the COVID-19 response.
One of his favourite memories was from 2004, when a 10-year-old boy needing a life-saving transfusion was stranded on the M5 when his father’s car broke down. Frank helped get the child and his mother to hospital in a National Highways 4×4 patrol vehicle, ensuring he made the appointment with five minutes to spare.
After receiving his MBE Frank told the BBC: “There have been rewards day after day that get me up in the morning and then I go to bed knowing that I made a difference to people’s lives.”
He added that he was “absolutely blown away” to find out about the honour, adding: “My wife opened the letter whilst I was watching my son play cricket!”
(Pic – National Highways/X)
