It has today been announced that the following Cumbrian residents have received a UK honour in HM The King’s honours list.

The Honours system gives national recognition to people who have given exceptional service in public and community life and are committed to making a difference to those around them.

Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

Professor Joanne Rycroft-Malone for services to Health and Social Care Research.

Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

Ms Marie Hamer for services to Education.

Mr Edward Mallinson for services to Steam Boating Heritage and to the community in Cumbria.

Mr Nicholas Owen for services to Mountain Rescue.

Mrs Evelyn Pattinson for Charitable Services.

Mr Nigel Robson for services to Education.

Mr Steven Watts for services to Charitable Fundraising.

Medallist of the Order of the British Empire (BEM)

Ms Sheila Ashburner for services to the community in Milnthorpe.

Anyone can nominate someone for a UK Honour through the 'open access' system and awards are given to people from all walks of life.

The final decision as to who receives an honour is first decided by an Honours Committee and their recommendations go to the Prime Minister and finally to HM The King for approval.

The process can take up to 18 months with recipients of honours announced in HM The King’s New Year’s Honours List and Birthday Honours List.

Nomination forms and advice on how to complete them are available through the Cumbria County Council website. Honours nominations | Cumbria County Council

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, Mrs Claire Hensman congratulates all the award winners.

She said: “To be awarded an Honour is a huge achievement and I do congratulate all the recipients whose contributions to our communities make such a difference. “I would encourage people to think about someone that they know who always goes the extra mile for others and who has made an outstanding contribution to their community or to their area of work over the years. Anyone can nominate a person for an honour, and I am very keen for people who have given exceptional service to receive the recognition they deserve.”