Miss Wakeford was named in the 2023 New Years Honours list for “distinguished personal service” to the Monarch. She was appointed as the first female Butler to the Lieutenant-Governor in 2007.
As Butler/House Manager, Ms Wakeford oversees the running of Government House and all its functions.
“I like the fact that it’s constantly changing, no two days are the same and you get to meet lots of people from lots of different walks of life,” she said.
“I want to thank past and present members of Government House, because long service comes from having a good team around you – so they’re a huge part of it.”
Miss Wakeford worked at Government House on an ad hoc basis before being fully employed in 1993.
“As in life, these things sort of just happen… life takes you one way and there you go. It’s a great honour to be awarded [the RVM].”
The Lieutenant-Governor, Richard Cripwell, said on the three awards announced: “These awards recognise remarkable service in quite different fields, but what they share is the fact that all three recipients have done so much for the Bailiwick and its reputation. I am sure that Islanders will join me in congratulating each of them for their outstanding contributions, which have also enriched the life or our community.”