Employee of the Year 2024 winner’s family attend King Charles' garden party

King Charles' traditional summer garden party, held at Buckingham Palace, was recently attended by the widow and son of Salford City Council’s Employee of the Year 2024 winner Mark Baker. The event was hosted by Prince William, The Prince of Wales and Catherine, The Princess of Wales who were joined by Zara Tindall, Princess Eugenie, and Sophie and Edward, Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh. 

Garden Parties have evolved into a way of recognising and rewarding public service, which having won Employee of the Year, Mark would have been invited to attend. Sadly, having fought cancer for 21 years, he passed away in January 2025.   

Mark, who was a Large Goods Vehicle Driver for the council won the prestigious accolade at the awards ceremony at the end of 2024 from over 550 nominations that appreciate the individuals and teams who embody the council’s values and put the workforce and residents at the heart of everything they do. 

At the time Mark won his award, he said: “I was truly overwhelmed at winning the Employee of the Year award and I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who took time out to vote for me. It really means so much.” 

Jane Baker, Mark’s wife of 36 years attended the garden party in his place with their son Jordan to represent Salford and said: “Mark would have absolutely loved it, and it was such a special occasion to honour Mark’s memory. Despite being diagnosed with cancer, Mark was always dedicated to his work and made the most of everything, especially his family. His lasting legacy is one of determination, strength and spirit. Been recognised as Employee of the Year is a poignant reminder of that. I’d like to thank his colleagues at the council for nominating him and also the Mayor’s office, who were wonderful in organising for us to attend this amazing event.” 

David McLaughlin, Environmental Co-ordinator at Salford City Council said of Mark when winning the award: “Mark is a highly valued member of the team, providing a quality and essential service to the city's residents for many years. His daily commitment to high standards are a great representation of the service, always liaising with residents and customers in a friendly and helpful way, often going above and beyond.   

“Mark is always upbeat with a can-do positive attitude that he projects every day, which is a testament to his character considering the immense personal challenges he faces. Mark is a well-respected member of the team and comes to work every day with a smile on his face which demonstrates the passion, pride and personal responsibility he has in abundance, as well as the commitment he shows to the people of Salford.” 

As well as an opportunity to meet members of the Royal Family, guests mingle with fellow guests, explore the Palace grounds, and enjoy delicious tea and cakes. More than 30,000 people are invited to the garden parties collectively each summer and it is estimated that at each event, guests consume about 27,000 cups of tea, 20,000 sandwiches, and 20,000 slices of cake.