A dedicated volunteer from North Wales has been recognised by the King for his exceptional commitment to improving road safety across the United Kingdom. Mike Redfern-Jones, a 62-year-old electrician from Denbigh, has been appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2024 New Year Honours list.
Four Decades of Dedication to Safer Roads
Mike Redfern-Jones has devoted more than 40 years of his life to voluntary service with IAM RoadSmart, the UK's leading road safety charity. His journey began in 1985 after he completed an Advanced Driver course with the organisation. Inspired to give back, he joined the North Wales Group of Advanced Motorists, embarking on a mission to share his knowledge and help others navigate roads more safely.
Despite describing himself as a "massive petrolhead" with a deep love for cars and motorsport, Mike recognised there was always more to learn about driving. After passing his standard test in 1981, he pursued advanced training to become a better, safer driver. This passion for improvement fuelled his decades of volunteer work.
Key Roles and Lasting Impact
Mike's contributions have been both varied and sustained. He initially served as the group's newsletter Editor and an Observer. In 1994, he took on the pivotal role of group Secretary for the North Wales Group of Advanced Motorists, a position he has held with pride for nearly thirty years.
As an Observer, his work involved directly guiding and supporting other drivers and riders. He provided crucial feedback, practical tips, and encouragement to help them build confidence and competence behind the wheel. "It's incredibly rewarding to guide and support drivers, build their confidence, and help them understand how small changes can make a big difference to their safety and the safety of others," Mike remarked.
Witnessing a Revolution on the Roads
Reflecting on his four decades of experience, Mike notes that driving in the UK has transformed dramatically. He has seen the evolution from quieter roads with simpler vehicle mechanics to today's landscape of heavy traffic, advanced technology, and stricter enforcement.
"Today's drivers face challenges that were unimaginable decades ago – but they also benefit from innovations that make journeys safer and more efficient than ever," he observed. Despite these changes, his core motivation remains unchanged: a passion for reducing risk and ensuring everyone gets home safely.
"After more than 40 years, I'm still passionate about helping people become safer drivers," Mike stated. "If we can reduce risk on the roads and help everyone get home safely, then that's something truly worth dedicating your time to." His MBE award stands as a formal recognition of this lifelong, community-focused dedication to saving lives on Britain's roads.
