Mablethorpe man ‘blown away’ after receiving OBE

Andrew George Beet, who lives in Mablethorpe, has received the OBE in recognition of his services to law and order.

Andrew spent 30 years as a Metropolitan police officer across a wide spectrum of policing roles, followed by a further 12½ years as a member of police staff working on behalf of the National Police Chiefs’ Council with Home Office OSCT (Office for Security and Counter-Terrorism).

His latter role involved researching new and emerging digital technology and, during this period, he designed and introduced the annual international conference and training programme delivered for the law enforcement community, stakeholders, and the industry.

The original two day conference event was attended by 80 people, but this has since evolved into a five day programme providing 8,000 delegate places.

The annual conference, held in London, attracts delegates from all over the world including those from the USA, Australia, and New Zealand.

Andrew told the Leader: “I was blown away! It was amazing to get the email about the OBE, and it is great to be recognised.

“I worked with a close-knit team of colleagues, and of course this reflects on them too.

“(The OBE) means a lot to me and my family, especially after such a difficult year for everyone.”

Andrew moved with his wife to Mablethorpe after his retirement around a year ago, and he has three grown up children and five grandchildren - who he hopes will be keen to visit them in their new home on the coast when the current coronavirus restrictions are lifted.

Following the OBE announcement, Andrew is expected to be invited to Buckingham Palace in 2021, at a date to be confirmed.