As part of the 2010 New Year Honours list, Mike Martin has been appointed MBE. Mike has spent his whole career in community service but stepped down as director of Reading Voluntary Action in July 2009 after 20 years' in that role. While the award marks his significant contribution to the life of the local voluntary and community sector in Reading, far from taking it easy, Mike continues to commit his energies and extensive knowledge to the demanding role of Chair of the National Association for Voluntary and Community Action.