NLCB Fonclaire thanks queen for recognising pan

DARREN Sheppard, one of the last Trinidad and Tobago nationals to have received an award from the late queen, is expressing sadness at her passing.

Queen Elizabeth II, who served the monarchy for unbroken 70 years, died on Thursday at the age of 96. Her husband Prince Philip preceded her in April 2021. She has been succeeded by her son, King Charles III.

On August 23, Sheppard, managing and musical director of NLCB Fonclaire, was presented with the Points of Light award by British High Commissioner Harriet Cross at its San Fernando Claire and Fonrose Street base, on behalf of the queen.

The queen conferred the award to Sheppard in April, for his outstanding voluntary service by running music programmes for over 1,000 young people and seniors, through Fonclaire.

Cross, in presenting the award, explained, “It is given to exceptional individuals in Commonwealth countries and is of great importance to the UK and to her majesty the queen, who singled out Darren Sheppard for this recognition.”

She said she was proud and delighted to deliver this award as the pan is appreciated globally and has many fans in the UK.

Responding to news of the queen’s death on Thursday, Sheppard said he was honoured to have been given this award in the last days of her incredible 70-year reign.

“It is a tremendous honour to be the recipient of this award only two weeks ago. To be able to have her actual signature affixed on my certificate, it a wonderful privilege.

“I thank her for recognising pan. I thank her for recognising this young man from Cooper Street, San Fernando and I thank her for recognising NLCB Fonclaire.

“May her majesty the queen rest in eternal peace.”

Sheppard said he had been receiving calls since her death “as though I am a part of the royal family.” He sent a message of condolence to Cross and her family, which he has asked be extended to all of the British population.

He said he had nothing but admiration for the queen, who had ruled with grace and dignity for so many years.

“It is amazing, to have ruled for such a long time and to be so consistent. That could not have been easy, I am sure.”