Cwmavon’s very own Shaun Tobin, proud member of the Steel Family and longstanding Richard Burton 10K Race Director, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2025. 

The award recognises Shaun’s exceptional dedication to sport, charitable fundraising, and community engagement across Port Talbot and South Wales.

A former employee of Tata Steel UK in Port Talbot, Shaun has spent decades working to uplift and support the wellbeing of those around him — both within the steelworks and beyond.

For more than 25 years, Shaun has led the Richard Burton 10K, one of Wales' most iconic and well-attended road races, proudly sponsored by Tata Steel UK.  

Under his leadership, the event has grown from a local race into a major annual fixture, drawing thousands of participants and raising significant funds for local charities and initiatives. Shaun has consistently championed the race not only as a sporting challenge but as a powerful celebration of community spirit, heritage, and local pride.

Reflecting on the honour, Shaun said: “We never set out to be recognised, we just wanted to do something positive for Joe, for our family, and for our community. 

This honour is a reflection of the incredible support we've received and the spirit of everyone who has walked or run beside us over the last 25 years.”

Speaking of his dad’s achievements, Tata Steel UK’s Joe Tobin said: “I am immensely proud of Shaun’s recognition in the King’s Birthday Honours list.

“The amount of effort and care that he puts into the Richard Burton 10K, ensuring that it remains a community focused event, supporting our local community and our people, cannot be understated. He’s a true community champion and this award could not be more deserved.

“Congratulations Dad!”

Registration for this year’s Richard Burton 10K is now open.