Pat Knifton Hough Receives BEM for Contributions to Theatre and Community
Pat Knifton Hough, a 101-year-old resident, has expressed her delight and gratitude upon being named the oldest recipient in the latest Birthday Honours List. She has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her significant contributions to theatre and the community, specifically for her 57 years of involvement with the Nantwich Players.
Knifton Hough was instrumental in the establishment and growth of the Nantwich Players Theatre. Reflecting on her extensive service, she stated, "I've enjoyed every minute of my work with the theatre. I just feel thrilled to bits really."
A Legacy of Theatre Building
Her dedication dates back to the theatre's inception, when she was among the founding members who transformed a former Quaker meeting house into the Nantwich Players' venue. This historic 300-year-old building, acquired in 1980 from Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council, was converted into an 82-seat theatre, with surrounding areas adapted for a foyer and backstage facilities.
Jeremy Acklam, Chairman of the Nantwich Players, acknowledged the enduring impact of her work. "Effectively, that is the building that we still operate," he noted, highlighting that the theatre has since expanded into an adjacent former funeral parlour. Acklam conveyed immense gratitude from both the theatre group and the wider Nantwich community for the foundational efforts of Knifton Hough and her peers.
Continued Influence and Community Spirit
Today, the Nantwich Players boasts approximately 160 members and stages ten productions annually, a significant expansion from its beginnings. Acklam emphasized, "We're really strongly building on her legacy and so grateful that she still attends almost every production at the age of 101."
He described Knifton Hough as an "incredibly generous" individual, known for her positive outlook and consistent focus on community betterment. "I'm very, very pleased that Pat has been recognised in this way," Acklam added, describing the honor as "very fitting" for such a "lovely person."