In their latest resident story, the Durham Aged Mineworkers’ Homes Association (DAMHA) chat to Les Lewis, a devoted lay minister from Ferryhill, whose lifelong service to his community recently earned him a royal honour.

“I grew up in Ferryhill and started going to church when I was young,” Les recalls. “I sang in the choir for many years and in my twenties, the vicar asked if I’d consider training to become a Reader — what’s now known as a Licensed Lay Minister.”

After three years of training, Les was licensed in 1978 and has been preaching, teaching and leading services ever since. His ministry extends beyond the church walls – he helps lead Remembrance Sunday services and has presided over more than 250 funerals during his time of service.

Les began his working life as a joiner with Stephenson’s in Bishop Auckland, catching an early morning bus from Ferryhill to Spennymoor and then on to work. He later held various roles, including with the local council, and spent time driving a minibus for young people attending a training centre in Ferryhill. He eventually returned to the council, where he trained young joiners, some of whom still stop him in the street today to say hello.

Earlier this year, Les received an unexpected letter from Buckingham Palace, inviting him to accept Maundy Money from The King during a special service at Durham Cathedral. “At first I thought it was a joke,” he admits. “I still don’t know who nominated me, but once I realised it was real, I was honoured to accept.”

The Maundy Service, a centuries-old tradition, recognises those who dedicate their lives to helping others. The number of recipients matches the Monarch’s age; this year, 76 men and 76 women. Les received two purses from The King: one red, containing commemorative coins, and one white, containing silver Maundy coins, each piece representing the monarch’s age in pence.

“It was wonderful meeting The King and Queen,” Les says. “Sharing the occasion with my son made it even more special.”

In his spare time, Les enjoys making walking sticks, and he even sent one to The King at Balmoral. “I received a lovely letter saying he’d got it,” Les smiles. “You never know — maybe one day I’ll see him on television using it!”

15 October 2025