Emma Dagnes, Alexandra Park and Palace Charitable Trust CEO, has been awarded an OBE in recognition of her services to heritage, in the King’s birthday honours list announced today (15 July).

Over the past fourteen years Emma, alongside the staff, volunteers, stakeholders and Trustees, has worked tirelessly to elevate the “People’s Palace” to its status as an iconic cultural, well-being and leisure destination.

Having recently concluded celebrations of the 150th anniversary of the Grade II listed Palace and award-winning 196-acre Park, Emma is now spearheading the charity’s ambitious new vision for the future: to become a sustainable home for inspirational culture, world-class entertainment, unique heritage, life-affirming creative and learning opportunities and restorative green space.

Cllr Emine Ibrahim, Chair of the Trustees of Alexandra Park & Palace Charitable Trust: “On behalf of the Trustees and myself I am delighted to see Emma recognised with an OBE. Since starting at Alexandra Park and Palace fourteen years ago, Emma has brought energy, imagination and dedication to all that she has undertaken. From leading on the major restoration of our lost Victorian Theatre to growing our entertainment, wellbeing and creative learning programme, reaching new audiences and beneficiaries. Through her leadership the charity has gone from strength to strength. Emma embodies the Ally Pally spirit, and the Trustees look forward to working with her and her team as we move into the next chapter with our Vision to be a sustainable home for all that we do.”

Emma Dagnes OBE, CEO of Alexandra Park & Palace Charitable Trust: “I am truly honoured to have received this award. Heritage is much more than just physical structures. It is about the people and the stories that inhabit these spaces and the inspiration and sense of community that they bring to people’s lives. Ally Pally is one of the nation’s great success stories in this respect. That is thanks to a huge number of people who have worked, campaigned, volunteered and fundraised to ensure the survival and success of the “People’s Palace” over its 150 years. I am proud to be one of their number and privileged to continue to serve as we move forward with an exciting and bold new Vision and resolve to safeguard Ally Pally for now and forever.”