THE former deputy Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside has celebrated his 100th birthday.
George Kenneth Medlock OBE, JP, DL, MIMechE, Companion of CMI marked his milestone as the guest of honour at a party at West Kirby United Reformed Church on Saturday.
West Kirby URC were delighted to join together to celebrate the birthday of Ken, a faithful attender at the church’s Sunday morning service for more than 30 years.
Balloons, bunting and birthday banners decorated the hall, and photos from each decade of Ken’s life were displayed.
With his wife Edna, who celebrated her 99th birthday last Sunday, and surrounded by friends of all generations, Ken enjoyed an afternoon tea and his life story was told.
Hailing from the village of Birch Vale, Derbyshire, Ken achieved his ambition to work as an engineer after a seven year apprenticeship in printing and subsequently played a pivotal role in the Cooperative Wholesale Society.
He was appointed Chief Engineer in Manchester in 1951 and in 1976, Deputy CEO responsible for the Non Food Division.
Former deputy lieutenant of Merseyside, Ken Medlock.
In 1971, Ken moved to Wirral to work as CEO and secretary of the Birkenhead and District Cooperative Society, a move which opened the door for Ken’s later appointment as chairman of the fledgling Radio City in 1972.
While in office, Ken was invited to join Merseyside Chamber of Commerce where he was chairman from 1986 to 1988.
Ken is passionate about charity work and during this period, also played a major role in Granada Televisions’ Telethons.
He was appointed Deputy Lieutenant of Merseyside in 1985 and awarded the OBE in 1989.
With no plans to retire, Ken supported the work of Voluntary Housing Associations, worked with the North West Regional Development Agency and served as a member of the North West Channel Tunnel Steering Group until 2005, when he was 91.
Despite a busy fortnight of celebrations, Ken was at church as usual on Sunday morning before going on to his next birthday party.
Reflecting on his life, Ken said: “My faith has guided me to do what I believe has been tight and I have no significant regrets.”
Ken’s autobiography is, quite appropriately, titled “A Good Innings”.
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