Council leaders and chief executives from across the country have been recognised by Her Majesty in the Queen’s birthday honours list.

Former chief executive of Kensington and Chelsea RBC and Hammersmith and Fulham, Derek John Myers, received a knighthood for services to local government in London.

Chief executive of Orkney Islands Council, Alistair Buchan, and councillor and leader of the Conservative Group at Leeds City Council, Andrew Carter, were both awarded a CBE for their services to local government. The same honour was extended to former chief executive of Highland Council, Alistair Bruce Dodds.

Leader at Torfaen County Borough Council, Cllr Robert George Wellington, was awarded the CBE for services to local government, heritage and the community in Torfaen and Wales.

Chamberlain of the City of London, Christopher Nigel Bilsland, received an OBE for services to local government finance and the City of London Corporation.

Chief executive of Milton Keynes Council, David James Robert Hill, also received an OBE for services to local government.

Communities secretary Eric Pickles said: ‘Many congratulations to the councillors, council staff, fire service, voluntary and community workers named in this year’s Queen’s birthday honours list. They can be deservedly proud their achievements have been given national recognition.

‘This is testament to the hard work, dedication and commitment of the individuals who so silently serve their communities day in day out.’