The UK has honoured over 1,200 outstanding individuals in HM The King’s New Year Honours List 2025. Unsung heroes from healthcare, education, sports, arts, and community service sectors have been recognised for their extraordinary contributions.
PM Hails Everyday Heroes
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer praised the recipients, saying:
“Each and every day, ordinary people go out and do extraordinary things for their communities. They represent the very best of the UK and that core value of service which I put at the centre of everything this government does.”
Top Honours in Sports and Leadership
- Sir Gareth Southgate, ex-England football manager, knighted for exceptional services to football and youth charities like the Prince’s Trust.
- Helen Glover, double Olympic rowing champ, awarded an OBE following her gold at the 2024 European Championships.
- Keely Hodgkinson, Olympic athletics gold medalist, and Eleanor Aldridge, the first Olympic kiteboarding champion, both snag MBEs.
Arts, Literature & Mental Health Champions
- Dame Jacqueline Wilson honoured with a Dame Grand Cross for outstanding literary contributions.
- Stephen Fry knighted for his tireless work raising mental health awareness and changing public attitudes.
Young Stars Making Big Waves
- 18-year-old Mikayla Beames bags a BEM for founding Team Mikayla and raising over £300,000 for children with cancer.
- William Ellard, Paralympic gold medallist, awarded an MBE for his Paris 2024 heroics.
- Rebecca Clarke, 20, wins a BEM for campaigning on disability rights and youth access policies.
Community Legends Honoured
- Colin Bell, 103, WWII Mosquito pilot, receives a BEM for his wartime service with Bomber Command.
- Michael Bennion, Scout Leader for 54 years, awarded an MBE for dedication to youth development.
- Wendy Ansell, specialist midwife, honoured with an MBE for supporting FGM survivors and women asylum seekers.
Inclusion Takes Centre Stage
This year’s list proudly celebrates diversity, shining a light on heroes from every corner of society.
Government Praise for Unsung Heroes
Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Rt Hon. Pat McFadden MP, said:
“This year’s New Year Honours List celebrates the unsung heroes who contribute selflessly to their communities across the UK.”
How You Can Nominate
Got someone in mind who deserves a shout-out? Nominate them for future honours at gov.uk/honours. These awards shine a spotlight on service and inspire others to make a difference.
