King Charles III has officially unveiled the New Year Honours List for 2025, recognizing individuals from all walks of life who have made significant contributions to society. This year’s accolades feature distinguished figures from various fields, including education, public service, law enforcement, and community initiatives.
Among the honorees, ten individuals hailing from Devon have been celebrated for their diverse contributions ranging from drama and science to public health and animal welfare. Notable among them is Barbara Lesley Gardner, the founder and CEO of Animals Interfaith Alliance (AIA), who has been appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her extensive efforts toward animal welfare. Gardner has brought together multiple faith-based organizations to advocate for animal protection. She expressed her gratitude, stating, "I'm deeply honoured and humbled to have received an MBE for services to animal welfare. This is a wonderful recognition of animal welfare and of all the devoted people who work tirelessly to promote it."
Recognized alongside Gardner is Lynne Hookings, appointed MBE for her dedicated service to Torquay Hospital and her extensive volunteer work. Hookings spoke with pride about the honor, reflecting on her commitment to giving back after benefiting from the hospital’s services herself.
The educational sector also saw significant representation, with figures such as Geoff Barton, the former general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, being awarded Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). He articulated his pride stating, "This honour demonstrates education isn’t on the periphery, it matters. I see it as recognition of the extraordinary, humane leadership of all those people I have worked with over the years."
Professor Alison Fuller from University College London was elevated to Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her influential work promoting vocational education and apprenticeships. Fuller, startled by the recognition, shared her excitement and attributed her success to the many collaborators she has worked with throughout her career.
Law enforcement also featured prominently, as 37 police and law enforcement personnel received accolades for their outstanding service. Knighthoods were awarded to figures like Andrew Cooke, who serves as His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary, for his unwavering dedication to public service. "A huge congratulations and well done to all of those recognized for their service to policing," said Gavin Stephens, Chair of the National Police Chiefs’ Council. "Police bravery and dedication are ever-present, and I’m so pleased to see such exemplary contributions acknowledged. Policing is a job like no other, requiring commitment and courage, and today we recognize those qualities."
Military service was not left out either, with many individuals from the Army honored for their leadership and commitment, particularly during challenging operatives both domestically and abroad. Defence Secretary John Healey praised the honorees, mentioning their remarkable achievements, especially during operations such as the evacuation efforts from Sudan, and their contributions to training foreign military forces.
Healthcare and public health fields were also highlighted, with Steven John Wearne being awarded OBE for his work with the Food Standards Agency. His contributions to safeguarding public health, especially through food safety regulations, were emphasized as being pivotal during challenging times.
Sports personalities were not missing from the 2025 New Year Honours List either. Keely Hodgkinson, recognized as the 2024 BBC Sports Personality of the Year, received honors for her remarkable achievements as a Team GB athlete. Similarly, football coach Gareth Southgate was also knighted for his services to the sport after leading England through successful campaigns.
Finally, awards were also distributed for community service endeavors with individuals like Katherine Friedrich, who founded People Assisting Torbay's Homeless (PATH). Celebrated for her efforts to support the homeless community, Friedrich described receiving the British Empire Medal (BEM) as "bittersweet," expressing how such recognition often reflects on the social issues faced by society.
The New Year Honours List serves as a significant yearly reminder of the dedication and hard work of individuals committed to improving British society. Recognising such diverse achievements fosters inspiration throughout the community, showing how collective efforts can lead to substantial change.