Residents urged to nominate others for future Kings Honours
19 June 2026
HM Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, James Saunders-Watson, is encouraging residents to nominate people making a difference within their communities for future King’s Honours.
It follows the recent announcement of 17 people with links to Northamptonshire being recognised in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours for their contributions to society, their communities and their professions.
The honours system recognises people who have made achievements in public life and committed themselves to serving and helping their local communities. Honours are awarded twice a year, in the King’s Birthday Honours and the New Year. Anyone can nominate someone for an honour, and further details on how to do so can be found on the UK Gov Honours page.
He said: “I’m delighted to offer my warmest congratulations to those from Northamptonshire recognised in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours.
These awards highlight the dedication, leadership and commitment of individuals who give so much to others and make a real difference to people’s lives, reflecting the very best of our county. Not everyone realises that anyone can make nominations to the honours system and I would warmly encourage anyone who knows someone making an outstanding contribution to Northamptonshire to consider doing so, so their service can be recognised more widely.”
Leading the recent King’s Birthday honours in the county is Professor Sheila Bird, who has been appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her work improving public health, particularly among underrepresented communities.
Two people have been awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE): Mark Byers for public service, and Craig Crowley for services to Deaf and deafblind people.
Four people have been appointed Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), including Dr Lisa Cherry, Dr Hilda Hayo and Professor Eunice Lumsden, recognised for their contributions across education and social care, dementia support, and children’s rights and welfare.
Those named Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) include David Bernard, Milly Fyfe, Mark Major and Ronald Sawford, recognised for their work in education, community support, carers’ services, and supporting disabled people.
Six people have also been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM), including Patricia Barrett for services to The Children’s Society and the community and David Harrop, honoured for his contribution to road safety and charitable fundraising.