The King's New Year Honours list for 2025 has placed a significant spotlight on Hertfordshire, with a host of local residents recognised for their exceptional work across sport, public service, charity, and the arts. The county's honourees range from globally celebrated sports stars to dedicated community leaders working behind the scenes.
Sporting Excellence Takes Centre Stage
Leading the county's accolades is Leah Williamson OBE, who has been appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to association football. The St Albans resident and captain of the England women's national team has cemented her status as a household name and a powerful inspiration for young athletes across the nation following the Lionesses' historic successes.
Football leadership is further celebrated with Daniel Philip Levy receiving a CBE for services to charity and the community in Tottenham. The recently departed chairman of Tottenham Hotspur, from Potters Bar, is honoured for his extensive charitable endeavours alongside his high-profile role in the professional game.
A County of Diverse Achievers
Beyond the sporting arena, the Hertfordshire list showcases profound contributions to public life. Senior figures in national defence and health have been recognised, including Samantha Louise Des Forges from St Albans, a Director at the Ministry of Defence, who receives a CBE for services to equity and justice in defence.
The honours also shine a light on vital work in healthcare, social services, and charity. Notable appointments include:
- Rukshana Kapasi (St Albans): Awarded an OBE as Director of Health at Barnardo's for services to transforming care and health equity.
- Dr Tanya Moore (St Albans): Receives an MBE for services to social work as Principal Social Worker for Essex County Council.
- Emma Louise Rule (Royston): Founder of Musicians Against Homelessness, awarded an MBE for charitable service to homeless people and aspiring musicians.
Celebrating Public Service and Community Spirit
The list extends to honour those whose voluntary and professional work forms the backbone of local communities. Reginald Kenneth East, a foster carer for Hertfordshire Council in Hemel Hempstead, receives an MBE for his services to foster care.
In the realm of arts and culture, David Thomas Gurney of Hemel Hempstead is awarded an MBE for services to cinema and heritage, following his role as Film Laboratory Lead at the British Film Institute. Meanwhile, Michael Henry Marx from Bushey is recognised with an MBE for his services to Holocaust remembrance and education as a trustee of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust.
The 2025 New Year Honours underscore Hertfordshire's wide-ranging impact, celebrating individuals whose dedication and talent benefit society from the local level to the national stage.
