Britain’s Got Talent winner and War Horse Ambassador awarded MBE

KING’S BIRTHDAY HONOUR: For ex-army veteran Colin Thackery

Colin Thackery, a Korean War veteran and Ambassador for The War Horse Memorial , has been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours. 

The 95-year-old Chelsea Pensioner found fame later in life after winning television show Britain’s Got Talent in 2019. He has given 79 years of service to the UK since joining the British Army at the age of 15 and has shown an extraordinary commitment to charitable work, before and since his time in the limelight.

Growing up in Camden during the Blitz, Colin joined the Army in 1946 and was a soldier for nearly 25 years, seeing active service in Malaya and Korea. He has formed a particular bond with the Republic of Korea. Colin was invited to return by the Korean Government in 2023 to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice where he took part in a number commemorative events, including singing in front of the President and other dignitaries.

Following the death of his wife Joan, Colin became a Chelsea Pensioner in 2017 and has been involved in supportive work of the British Army and related Remembrance activities up and down the country.

A passionate philanthropist, Colin is an Ambassador for the Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity and The War Horse Memorial. He has also been heavily involved in supporting charities such as The Royal British Legion, The Royal Hospital Chelsea, SSAFA (the Armed Forces charity, formerly Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen’s Families Association), The Royal Artillery Association and Blesma (The Limbless Veterans) for many decades.

Prior to moving to Chelsea, he volunteered his time to support many local charities across Norfolk where he lived for 46 years. He remains committed to fundraising and regularly performs at and attends charitable events.

Speaking after hearing the news of his award, Colin said: “I am deeply honoured and grateful to His Majesty the King to receive the MBE and thoroughly look forward to the opportunity to attend Buckingham Palace later in the year for what will be a proud occasion for my family and me. I am proud of the work I have been able to do in support of our country, and will continue to do everything I can to help those less fortunate than I.”