A well-known community figure in Bury St Edmunds has been overwhelmed by a celebratory event to mark his recent awarding of a British Empire Medal (BEM).

About 270 people turned out on Saturday evening to a party to celebrate Ernie Broom, who has been presented with a BEM for services to the community in the town.

The event, held at Ashla House – the masonic hall in Eastern Way – was organised by Mr Broom’s three children, Karen Arbon, Michael Broom and Anne Burwell. There was singing – Mr Broom even gave a rendition of My Way – dancing, food and pictures from the BEM recipient’s many years of serving the community. He said: “It was just a lovely event. I loved the atmosphere throughout the whole of the evening. I couldn’t sleep when I came home on Saturday night.”