Dr Laura Cohen was recently awarded the MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
Members of Menorah Synagogue were very pleased to learn belatedly that one of their most active members had been awarded the MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
They would not have spotted it on the Honours list for Laura Barley had been listed under her maiden and workplace name as ‘Cohen’. The news was greeted with delight when newly elected Chair Hilary Thomas made the announcement to the congregation.
As Chief Executive of the British Ceramic Confederation, Laura has been recognised for her services to the ceramics industry. She leads the BCC trade association for 100 member companies covering the full spectrum of the industry’s manufacturing capacity across the country.
Laura, husband Mark and son David are all active at Menorah, assisting in its education and cultural activities. Leading the annual Matzah ramble has earned them a fond place in the affections of the shul’s ramblers…and respect for their energy from the more sedentary members!
Said Laura: “I’m absolutely delighted to receive this award not just for me, but for my colleagues. The award also helps raise the profile of the ceramics industry at a critical time during the economic recovery.”