The Croydon funeral planner who has supported grieving families for over 65 years has been awarded an MBE for his services to the community.

Tony Rowland, founder of Golden Leaves funeral plans and Chairman of Rowland Brothers International (RBI), was awarded an MBE for 'services to Undertaking and the community' in the latest Queen's new year honours list.

An apprentice at the age of 15, Tony continues to work at the age of 80. In 1971 he created a worldwide network and support structure for the efficient and compassionate repatriation of the deceased who pass whilst on holiday or working overseas, as well as citizens of other counties who die in the UK.

RBI has assisted in many emergencies, including the return of all the UK citizens who died in the South Asia tsunami, the 9/11 and 7/7 bombings and extreme weather emergencies. They are also an official supplier to the British Olympics and provides the repartition helpline for the NAFD.

Part of Tony’s charitable work includes the development of the Rowland Brothers Foundation, which provides free bereavement counselling and practical help to all in his local community.

Barry Floyd, Managing Director of Golden Leaves, said: “Tony is thoroughly deserving of his award through his initiatives to bring local communities together, whilst offering continued support for families in their time of need.”

“A real community champion, Tony embodies the compassion and commitment that the funeral service industry strives to maintain, and I am proud to work alongside him.”

Tony is an expert in international repartition and lectures at Scotland Yard, the FCO and to new UK diplomats being prepared for overseas assignments.

Golden Leaves was initially formed by a family of funeral directors in South London, to satisfy the demand of the community its family had served since 1875.

The firm was one of the first to introduce the funeral planning product to the UK and has continued this legacy, in being the first independent funeral planning company to launch the Guaranteed Cremation Funeral Plan model.