Colleagues and union members have gathered in Bedford to celebrate the retirement of local hero Charan Sekhon MBE following his 26-year career with the Environment Agency.
The community champion, who won a Bedford Independent Everyday Hero Award in the Volunteer category in 2021, joined the agency in January 2000 as an assistant environment officer in Bedford.
Over more than two decades, he built a highly respected career in environmental regulation and compliance.
Community hero
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Away from his professional career, Charan is a familiar face to many Bedfordians.
He has served as a local councillor for almost 25 years and founded SEVA Trust UK in 2016 to support local people with education, health and social welfare projects.
His extensive public service earned him an MBE in the 2022 New Year Honours List, which he later received from King Charles at Windsor Castle.
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Reflecting on his career, Charan said: “As I get ready to say goodbye, I cannot help but feel a little emotional.
“I have had the privilege of working with incredible people for the past 26 years and making lifelong friendships.
“Your support, collaboration and friendship have meant the world to me. The teamwork, shared successes and memories we have created together will always stay with me.
“The Environment Agency tackles environmental issues that matter most to local communities and future generations, and I feel privileged to have been part of that mission.
“I leave with immense gratitude, fond memories and sincere thanks to everyone who has been part of my journey.”
Dedicated colleague
During his time at the agency, Charan held senior roles, including equality, diversity and inclusion project coordinator.
“Charan’s overall input and support for his colleagues will always be remembered. He has consistently demonstrated professionalism, and the quality of training he has provided to new officers has been commendable,” Said Patrick Mackshea, Charan’s manager.
“I have never presented anyone with a 42-page leaving card before.
“The generosity of colleagues in raising such a healthy sum as a leaving gift demonstrates just how highly respected and valued Charan has been throughout the organisation.
“We shall miss him immensely.”
Environment Agency chairman Allan Lovell DL, added, “Many thanks for your great efforts. You have been an EA hero, and I wish you all the very best for the future,”
Whereas area director Sadia Moeed highlighted his influence on equality across the organisation.
“I want to say a huge thank you to Charan for everything he has done for the environment and for the Environment Agency.
“His legacy lives on in the countless officers he has trained and developed over the years.
“For me and other senior leaders, he has always been a trusted source of advice on equality, diversity and inclusion. I have always valued our conversations and the insight he brought to supporting people across East Anglia.
“Charan leaves this organisation with an MBE recognising not only his outstanding contribution to the Environment Agency but also his dedication to the wider community.
“Whilst we will miss him, I know many others will continue to benefit from the positive impact he has made throughout his career,” she said.
Union recognition
Charan also played a significant role within UNISON, serving as a branch welfare officer, equalities coordinator and branch chairman.
The Environment Agency UNISON branch organised a special retirement dinner in Bedford to present him with a recognition award.
Branch secretary Chris Swain and branch chairman Eddie Bell said: “Charan has had an outstanding career and has been an inspiration to many people joining both the Environment Agency and UNISON.
“He leaves with an unblemished record and a legacy built on professionalism, respect, community service and helping others.
“We thank him for his dedication and wish him every success and happiness for the future.”
