Tommy Spedding has spoken of his pride at being awarded an OBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours for his services to both the UK’s nuclear and transport industries.

Branding it the pinnacle of his career, Nuclear Transport Solutions’ Transport Manager, has played a vital role in some of the most strategically important nuclear transfers the UK has ever undertaken.

His global reputation has been forged during 40 years of service to the UK’s nuclear industry, where he has both planned and executed nationally and globally-important transports of radioactive material by land and sea.

Tommy said: “Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would be worthy of such an honour. This is an incredibly proud moment for me to have received such a prestigious honour in such distinguished company.

“This wouldn’t have been possible without the support and contribution of the rest of the NTS team, who have provided the foundation for me to be considered for the award.

“For the past 10 years, my position has been Transport Manager responsible for the co-ordination of activities to ensure we deliver safe, secure, and regulatory compliant transports. This job has only been possible due to the rest of the team who, through their dedication, professionalism and determination have always got the job done in quite often the most challenging circumstances.”

Tommy’s vast knowledge and experience has meant the UK’s unique nuclear transport capabilities are maintained for the benefit of the world.

His expertise is valued among NTS’ most important international partners, as Tommy has played a key role in ensuring the safe and secure transport of hundreds of transfers across the world during his career.

He added: “This obviously represents the pinnacle of my career and what an appropriate time to receive it, in my final year.

“Also, a massive thank you must go to my family, and in particular my wife, Diane, who has over the years had to make huge sacrifices to accommodate my many frequent and lengthy trips overseas on company business.”