New Year Honours: Praise for the 'normal people' who get Britain ticking
Local heroes
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.One is a railway worker who has been known to lend walletless commuters their fares. Another has battled for recognition of the historical importance of stationary engines. And then there is the man who has dedicated himself to the promotion of Britain's pepper industry.
Alongside the celebrities who dominate the honours are scores of "normal people" whose endeavours keep Britain ticking over. Judith Biggs, who is a "host" at Warwick Parkway station, is to receive a British Empire Medal. Mrs Biggs, 60, is renowned among customers for services above and beyond the call of duty, which have included driving passengers who missed their train to the next stop in her car.
Other unsung heroes include Gary Taylor, an Essex horticulturist who is appointed MBE for pioneering the cultivation of sweet peppers in the UK.
He is joined by David Edgington from Westbury, Wiltshire, who is created OBE for more than three decades of work to preserve and sing the praises of fixed engines.
Further reading:
New Year Honours: Plain old Mister will do, says Bradley Wiggins - Britain's two-wheeled knight
New Year Honours: Cherie Blair recognised for services to women
New Year Honours: Quentin Blake knighted, Kate Bush appointed CBE
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments