Local hero honoured with coronation invite for supporting vulnerable during pandemic

A TOWN clerk who went above and beyond for vulnerable residents during the Covid-19 lockdowns has been invited to the coronation.

Kate Butler is on the exclusive guestlist for King Charles III’s enthronement at Westminster Abbey on Saturday.

The former Maltby Town Council clerk, who now works in Aston, was presented with the British Empire Medal in 2021 for her work to support elderly and vulnerable residents with doctors’ appointments, arranging emergency healthcare and wellbeing support during the pandemic.

Mrs Butler, now a clerk at Aston-cum-Aughton Parish Council, said it would be one of the biggest privileges of her life to represent the borough.

“I was absolutely shocked to have received an invitation to the coronation,” she said.

“I received my invitation last month and couldn’t believe it.

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“It’s amazing to have been recognised for my work in the community which I’m very proud of.

“People nominated me for the BEM in 2021 because of helping so many people. I was both humbled and thrilled, if not slightly nervous, all at once.

“It’s going to be a historic, once-in-a-lifetime event and I’m now absolutely thrilled.

“Hopefully, I can make everyone in Rotherham proud.”

Mrs Butler (pictured), who lives in Broom, said she was honoured to have served people during a difficult period of isolation and illness.

She added: “Queen Elizabeth II’s death was a great loss to this country. She served with honour and dignity.

“Her contribution to this country was phenomenal. I believe King Charles III will make a great king.

“It makes me emotional now thinking about how stressful life was for people during the pandemic which involved a few sleepless hours.

“I’m honoured that people recognised my work in the community with the BEM just for doing what is expected as a good person — to help others in need.

“Working as a clerk has made me realise I’ve got one of the best jobs in the world and love every second of what I do.”