David Trenchard, a long-standing figure within the Britannia Movers International Group, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year Honours List, recognising a lifetime of service to the removals industry and to charitable causes in his local community.

Well known across the sector, Trenchard’s career has spanned decades, beginning with running a small removals business in Dorset before growing a successful family operation and later joining the Britannia group. Under his leadership, Britannia Leatherbarrows expanded to operate four depots in Wareham, Andover, Hounslow and Bournemouth, the latter becoming the flagship office.

His contribution to the wider industry has been equally significant. Trenchard is a past President of the British Association of Removers (BAR) and previously served on the Britannia Movers board. He has represented the British removals industry at European level, including work with CEN in Brussels, and played a key role in the development of the BS EN12522 service standard. He has also been a consistent advocate for the sector, engaging with government at both local and national levels.

Although now officially retired, with the business run by his daughter Sarah and son-in-law Darren, Trenchard remains a familiar presence at industry events and the BAR Annual Conference, offering guidance and insight. Beyond removals, he is a committed supporter of charitable causes, particularly through his local Rotary Club in Bournemouth and Dorset.

Reacting to the honour, Trenchard described the MBE as a “wonderful surprise”, crediting the support of his wife Diane and family throughout his career. The award is widely seen as a fitting tribute to a respected industry stalwart.

Photo: David Trenchard celebrates the award with his family.