Council officers and members were among those to be named on the King’s Birthday Honours list this year.

Former Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman Michael King was awarded a CBE for his service to the sector.

He retired from the role in March after serving at the local government watchdog for six years, with Paul Najsarek taking over as interim ombudsman.

Mr Najsarek said: ‘I heartily congratulate Mick on this richly deserved honour.

‘His commitment to improving public services, and seeking redress for people when things have gone wrong, is unparalleled and his common sense approach was appreciated by all of those who worked with him.’

Former chief executive of Windsor and Maidenhead LBC Duncan Sharkey was awarded an OBE, having played a critical role in ensuring the Queen’s funeral ran smoothly.

He said: ‘This was a real surprise but I am genuinely honoured.’

Also honoured with an OBE was principal social worker at Newham LBC, Beverley Halligan, who helped improve the council’s Ofsted rating.

Ms Halligan said: ‘We’ve been on a transformative journey for the last few years - all while navigating the pandemic - and I’m incredibly humbled by the nomination, let alone the award.’

Also receiving OBEs were former chief executive of Nottinghamshire CC, Anthony May, housing manager at Derby City Council Linda Cobb, and director of adult social services at Isle of Wight Council, Carol Tozer.

MBEs were awarded to:

Former Moray councillor George Alexander

Chair, Association of Liberal Democrat Councillors Prudence Bray

Belfast councillor Ronan Cregan

Former Sandwell MBC mayor Bawa Dhallu

Head of early years, Southend City Council Elaine Hammans

Lisburn and Castlereagh councillor Thomas Jeffers

Shropshire county councillor Heather Kidd

Business engagement officer, Mid Ulster Council Mary McGee

Manager of adult social care services, Halton BC Damian Nolan

Hertsmere borough councillor Alan Plancey

Windsor town manager Paul Roach

Director of early intervention and prevention, Islington LBC Penelope Kenway

Orkney Isles Council leader James Stockan

Libraries and community assets manager, Newham LBC Caroline Thomson

This article was originally published by The MJ (£)