IWAS is delighted to announce that IWAS Honorary Treasurer, Bob Paterson, has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for ‘Services to Paralympic Sport’ on the Queen’s New Year 2018 Honours List. 

"I am totally stunned and feel very honoured to be awarded an MBE and I consider this to be in recognition of all the wonderful people in our IWAS organisation." Bob said.

A Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) is awarded by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, for outstanding achievements or services to the community and to individuals who have made a long-term, significant impact on others.

Bob has worked tirelessly in his support of organisations representing sport for persons with physical impairments spanning over four decades. His commitment to the transformation of the lives of people with impairments, through sport, has impacted on the experiences of thousands of athletes around the world. 

Reflecting on his contributions, Bob said, ‘I have been involved in Para sport for nearly 40 years and I have seen so many changes from the early days of the Stoke Mandeville Wheelchair Games to the modern Paralympic Games. IWAS has been instrumental in creating the progression and opportunities we see today.’

‘I was very fortunate and privileged to have known Sir Ludwig Guttmann. From a very early age in my life, he would often visit our home and as a young boy I would listen to him at dinner and find him totally awe inspiring. Sir Ludwig Guttmann would have been delighted by his continued legacy and would be proud to see how we have brought his vision forward.’ Bob said.

The nomination submitted by IWAS, was also supported by Sir Philip Craven, IWAS Heritage Advisor, Dr Ian Brittain and Sir Ludwig Guttmann’s daughter, Eva Loeffler OBE.

‘Para sport is paramount in bringing countries together, forging important and lasting friendships across nations and inspiring everyone about the importance of hard work and dedication. Thank you to all of the wonderful sportsmen and women and the amazing people who work so hard to make this possible – I have had so much enjoyment and made so many lasting memories.’

Bob Paterson was appointed unanimously as Honorary Treasurer for another term by the newly-elected IWAS Executive Board in December 2017. 

On behalf of the IWAS Executive Board, Head-Quarters staff and IWAS Members, we would like to extend our sincerest congratulations to Bob Paterson MBE on this well-deserved recognition.