Wandsworth community champions who have both lived in the borough for more than 40 years have received a Queen’s recognition in honour of their incredible work.

Michael Jeewa, 74, was awarded a British Empire Medal for his services to Asian people with disabilities in London, for his work as CEO of the Asian People’s Disability Alliance (APDA).

The not-for-profit organisation, which was set up thirty years ago by Asian disabled people, works to address the needs of Asian elderly and disabled people and provides direct support services.

Speaking of his award, Michael Jeewa said: “I am delighted and inspired. Once again, Her Majesty has graciously extended Her recognition to us for our work with disabled people. The Royal family's regular support has been so inspirational to our efforts in working to address the needs of Asian disabled people and their carers and families."

As well being CEO of APDA, Michael has co-founded a social housing association which provides accessible special needs housing to disabled people and their families.

Recognising his Burmese origin, he initiated the setting up of a Burmese community organisation to address the mental and physical well-being of a Burmese community in the UK.

Also, Andrew Stimson, 77, has been awarded a British Empire Medal for services to Older People in Wandsworth, after running the Lavender Bridge Club for more than 24 years.

The bridge club has operated on a Wednesday and Friday since 2000, with around 85 people attending every session including former FA secretary Jack Dunnett.

Andrew, a resident of Tooting for more than 40 years, was nominated by a group of attendees and he admitted he was shocked by the recognition.

“I thought they were just being polite. They all think I do a wonderful job.”

To him, running the club is ‘just a hobby’.

He received a letter last month, confirming his nomination and details and on Friday, June 1 got a phone call informing him of his win.

Before retirement, Andrew was a senior scientific officer at The Natural History Museum for more than 30 years, working in the Reptile and Amphibians section and due to his extensive knowledge, in 1985 he had a species of large- blotched python named after him.

Both community champions are invited to an awards ceremony in London later this year and will attend the Queen’s Garden Party next year.