Congratulations have poured in from around the world for two of Calcutta Rescue’s most dedicated supporters who were knighted in Holland last month.
Lilian Teunissen and Henk Loos were made knights of the Order of Oranje Nassau by the King of the Netherlands for over 25 years service to the poor in Kolkata.
Calcutta Rescue’s chief executive, Jaydeep Chakraborty, described Lilian as a courageous person who has dedicated much of her life to those who are less fortunate than herself.
He said that Henk’s “compassion, empathy and love for mankind” made him worthy of this royal award.
Jaydeep said: “Congratulations Henk and Lilian! Thank you for all you have done and thank you to all our supporters around the world.”
Lilian, who is an A&E nurse who is also helping to care for coronavirus patients, said the news came as a complete surprise.
She said: “I was at work and was suddenly asked to go outside and a film crew was waiting for me. I was so amazed! And very happy. Such an honour.”
Because of the coronavirus, the award ceremonies are not expected to take place until later in the year.
The chairman of the charity’s Dutch support group, Jeroen van Basten Batenburg was given the same award a decade ago for his services to Calcutta Rescue.