After more than 52 years of commitment and dedication to the UK leisure industry, Colin Bryan, chief executive at Drayton Manor Park and son of the original founders, has received an OBE in recognition of his charity work and his ongoing contribution to tourism.

“My parents opened the park in 1950 and I have been working there since I was a young boy, when my first job was helping them clear the rubble with my miniature wheelbarrow,” Bryan said.

“I have worked in nearly every department over the years and qualified as a chef to really understand what makes the park and catering companies what they are today. It is in my blood so I feel very honoured to receive this OBE. I still love watching our guests have fun, enjoying themselves, knowing I have played a part in that.”

Located in Staffordshire, Drayton Manor is one of the UK’s most popular family attractions, with over one million visitors a year.