A woman from Catforth has been honoured for providing exceptional support to the Armed Forces.
Becky Steel is the director of the College for Military Veterans and Emergency Services (CMVES) at the University of Lancashire and recently received the Lord-Lieutenants’ Certificate of Meritorious Service for Veterans and Other Service Charities.
She was presented the accolade at His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire Awards 2026 in Blackburn.
Becky has dedicated her career to improving educational opportunities and life outcomes for members of the Armed Forces, whether that is veterans, service families, and emergency service personnel. She is particularly passionate about supporting children from military families to thrive and is a leading voice on the experiences of military families in education.
Advertisements
Becky, who has three service children herself, said: “So far, I have spent over two decades championing the armed forces community through developing access to education, conducting research, influencing policy and practice, as well as advocating on behalf of those members of the armed forces community whose voices are seldom heard.
“During this time, I have met some exceptional individuals and inspirational communities whether this be serving personnel, veterans, spouses, service children, family members or cadets.
“Whilst I am both humbled and proud to receive this award, it reflects the collaborative work of our team at CMVES, our broader university armed forces network, and colleagues across the armed forces space who work tirelessly to ensure the armed forces community, past and present, are recognised for their service and supported as they transition from military to civilian life. “
In addition to leading CMVES, Becky also plays an integral role in several regional and national initiatives. She is a member of the Service Children’s Progression (SCiP) Alliance Management Group, chairs the North West SCiP Hub, and was a founding member of the Lancashire Armed Forces Covenant Hub. She also played a key role in ensuring the University of Lancashire achieved and maintains Gold Standard Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) award.
Philip Dent, SCiP Alliance Director, added: “Her leadership, including as Chair of the SCiP Alliance North West Hub, has made a lasting difference to the lives of Service children and their families. On behalf of the entire SCiP Alliance community, I extend my huge gratitude for her dedicated service and heartfelt congratulations for this recognition, which is richly deserved.”
His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire Awards 2026 were presented by the current Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Jane Parker.
<img src="https://www.mtlblog.com/media-library/a-stone-building-with-green-and-red-accents-stands-on-a-snowy-street-right-a-snow-covered-red-bridge-crosses-a-partially-froze.jpg?id=54843185&width=1200&height=800&coordinates=96%2C0%2C96%2C0"/><br/><br/><p>If you've ever dreamed of spending the holidays among the <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/german-christmas-market-near-montreal">quaint cobblestone streets of Edinburgh or Glasgow</a>, you don't need to book a plane ticket from Quebec!</p><p>Just three hours from Montreal, the small Ontario town of Perth will make you feel like you've been whisked away to the cozy, wintry streets of Scotland.</p><p>Thanks to its <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/things-to-do-fall-old-montreal">cobblestone streets, historic architecture</a> and hospitable charm, this spot has all the appeal of Europe, especially during the holiday season. </p><p>Founded in 1816 by Scottish immigrants, Perth was designed to feel like a slice of Scotland in Ontario, right down to its name, which was borrowed from its namesake, Perth in Scotland. The town's heritage runs deep, and to this day, it's full of Scottish charm.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJfAEGnl0Kj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:8px;">
<div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;">
<div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">
</div>
</div>
<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJfAEGnl0Kj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
</p>
</div>
</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Downtown is lined with historic stone buildings crafted by masons that look straight out of the 19th century. The architecture and detailed stonework only add to the "mini Scotland" vibes.</p><p>The town's river—the Tay River—is named similarly to Scotland's River Tay, adding another touch of Celtic influence. The river winds through Perth, and in winter, it's often frozen or frosted with snow, making it an ideal setting for a cozy walk or wintry photos. </p><p>The river, together with Perth's stone bridges and classic lampposts, creates an atmosphere perfect for a winter daydream.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CI8Sk57L0jm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:8px;">
<div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;">
<div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">
</div>
</div>
<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CI8Sk57L0jm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
</p>
</div>
</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>However, Perth really comes to life during the holiday season with events and decorations that transform it into a festive wonderland.</p><p>In late November, the town's <a href="https://www.perth.ca/visit-us/festivals-and-events/christmas-and-holiday-events/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Festival of Lights</a> kicks off, with dozens of Christmas trees strung with lights and ornaments spread out around town. </p><p>At Crystal Palace, a glass-walled pavilion by the river, you can view the trees up close or take in the lights from outside as they reflect off the glass, turning the entire space into a glowing beacon of glittering lights. </p><p>The annual <a href="https://perthsantaclausparade.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Santa Claus Parade</a>, on December 7, is another unmissable event, with decorated floats and singers marching right through town.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CNe9-2CFkE1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:8px;">
<div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;">
<div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">
</div>
</div>
<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CNe9-2CFkE1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
</p>
</div>
</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Perth is also known for its shopping, with small boutiques, vintage and antique stores, and markets that make holiday gift hunting a breeze. You'll find unique, hand-crafted items, artisanal foods, and beautiful second-hand finds all around town.</p><p>And if you're sticking around after Christmas, there's even more to enjoy. On New Year's Day, the town hosts its <a href="https://www.perth.ca/visit-us/festivals-and-events/christmas-and-holiday-events/#PolarBearPlunge(January1,2025)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">annual Polar Bear Plunge</a> in the icy Tay River.</p><p>A full list of Perth's November and December upcoming holiday events can be found <a href="https://www.perth.ca/visit-us/festivals-and-events/christmas-and-holiday-events/#PolarBearPlunge(January1,2025)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><h3>Christmas in Perth, Ontario</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CIx_GHQr7g5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:8px;">
<div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;">
<div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">
</div>
</div>
<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CIx_GHQr7g5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
</p>
</div>
</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Price: Free to visit</p><p>When: Visit from mid-November onwards for ultimate winter magic<br/></p><p>Address: Perth, ON</p><p>Why You Need To Go: Whether you're there for the twinkling lights, the charming old buildings, or the chance to feel like you've stepped into a Scottish village, Perth is definitely worth the trip.</p><p><a href="https://www.perth.ca/en/visit/tourism.aspx" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Perth Tourism website</a></p><p><em>Before you get going, check out our <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/responsible-travel-guidelines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Responsible Travel Guide</a> so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.</em></p>
Ayra Starr has released the emotional music video for “Last Heartbreak Song,” featuring the smooth vocals of American R&B singer Giveon. The track is the…
