This incredible honour achievement recognises Teresa’s tireless work through The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation the charity she established in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
An honorary MBE is a rare and prestigious distinction, awarded annually by His Majesty The King to non-British citizens whose work has made a significant and positive difference within the United Kingdom. Teresa, originally from Portmagee in County Kerry, Ireland, received her MBE at an official ceremony in October 2025, where the medal was formally presented on behalf of His Majesty by the Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, James Saunders Watson.
After the presentation, Teresa celebrated with her family, friends, TMDF trustees, staff, volunteers, clients, supporters, and sponsors at The Swan & Helmet. The evening was filled with good company, live music, and plenty of smiles as everyone came together to celebrate Teresa’s achievement and her service to the community.
The Rose of Northamptonshire Awards were originally launched in 2020 by the High Sheriff’s Office, the Lord Lieutenancy, and Northamptonshire County Council as part of the Unsung Heroes Initiative. These prestigious awards recognise individuals and groups who have gone above and beyond to support their communities, especially during times of great need.
We are so grateful for everything our volunteers do, and we couldn’t have been prouder to see their efforts celebrated in such a meaningful way. This is a huge achievement, and a true testament to their hard work, dedication, and outstanding contributions to our charity and the wider community.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service, equivalent to an MBE, is the highest recognition given to volunteer groups in the UK. This prestigious award celebrates exceptional organisations with the highest standards of service, who’s volunteers are the driving force behind making positive change in their communities.
Our fantastic volunteers are the backbone of our charity, and we were thrilled to welcome the Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, James Saunders Watson, to present official badges to some of our core team back in 2024. Some of our core team received their awards from CEO of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, Rachel McGrath, at our Christmas party, and from former Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Morcea Walker, at the opening of our Food Hub later in the year.
Take a look at the pictures below!
We remain incredibly proud of their achievements and grateful for the lasting impact they continue to make.
We are also proud to celebrate a wide range of additional achievements that highlight the dedication, talent, and impact of our fantastic team. Our volunteers, supporters, and team members go above and beyond every day, and we are delighted to share some of their remarkable accomplishments.
2022 Northamptonshire Inspirational Woman of the Year
Awarded by Northamptonshire Community Foundation to Teresa McCarthy-Dixon, our founder.
2022 Lady Juliet Townsend’s Award for Voluntary Service
Awarded by Northamptonshire Community Foundation to Vincent Doherty, one of our volunteers.
2022 Platinum Champion Award
Her Majesty the Queens Platinum Jubilee Awarded by HRH the Duchess of Cornwall.
2022 High Sheriff of Northamptonshire Recognition Award
for Activities and Contribution on Embracing the life of the Community.
GOLD – COVID-19 Hero
Weetabix Food & Drinks Awards 20/21
Community Champions
Northamptonshires COVID-19
Outstanding Business of Lockdown
HRC Shortlist
Highly Commended Shining Star
Northamptonshire Carers Awards 2020
The Independent
National Newspaper Recognition
The Guardian
National Newspaper Recognition
Rose of Northamptonshire Award
Dedication to the Safety of the Community
Rose of Northamptonshire Award
Dedication to the Safety of the Community
NBEA 2020
Business Excellence Awards Winner
NBEA 2020
Community Person or Project of the Year
Kerry Diaspora Award Ireland
Recognition for long-standing contribution to the Irish community in the UK Award by Kerry County Council.
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