Jill Dawson worked at Chelsea as our matchday safety officer for almost 20 years before her retirement in 2019, ensuring Stamford Bridge remained a safe environment for matches, fans and visitors alike.

The dedicated employee was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s 2020 honours list earlier this week, for services to safety at sporting events.

‘Whilst obviously flattered and honoured to receive this award, I see this as very much a shared award between all of my Chelsea colleagues,’ Jill explained.

‘We’ve achieved exactly what we set out to do, which was to make Stamford Bridge a safe environment for all.

‘I actually got told about the award six months ago, so it’s been difficult to keep this under wraps for so long! But I’m really pleased it’s out in the open now and shows the hard work that goes on at Chelsea to make sure our stadium is safe for everyone.’

Chelsea chairman, Bruce Buck, praised Jill’s work during her time at Stamford Bridge and felt that her MBE was a welcome reward for her hardworking and diligent efforts.

‘We are delighted for Jill. This award is very much deserved and is due recognition of a career dedicated to ensuring the wellbeing and safety of all visitors to Stamford Bridge,’ said Bruce.

Jill joined Chelsea in the summer of 2000, having previously worked in the same role at Brentford for a decade, and had been an important figure at matches throughout her time here.

Everyone at Chelsea, and especially all the matchday staff at Stamford Bridge, would like to praise Jill for her terrific service to the club over the past 19 years and are thrilled to see her awarded with an MBE.