Wakefield Age UK chief executive and school communication specialist on King's New Year Honours list

Paula Bee, chief executive of Age UK Wakefield has been awarded MBE and Lisa Riding, head of speech and communication specialist resource at St Thomas a Becket, has been awarded the BEM.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “This year’s Honours list celebrates the very best of Britain – people who put the common good ahead of themselves to strengthen communities and change lives.

“Their quiet dedication speaks to the decent, compassionate country we are proud to be. On behalf of the whole nation, thank you – and congratulations to everyone recognised today.”

In Yorkshire and Humberside, 84 people who have contributed to their community and country are celebrated in the 2026 list.

In total, 1157 recipients have been awarded this year for their achievements, with a particular focus being on those who have championed their communities.

This year’s recipients include role models in women's sports, committed health workers, champions of the arts, and supporters of young people.

Recipients from Yorkshire and Humberside make up seven per cent of the total number of recipients receiving honours awarded.

Entertainer Paul Chuckle and members of the team behind Bradford City of Culture were among the other recipients of honours this year.

A previous recipient was Pontefract’s Leeds Rhinos legend and motor neuron disease campaigner Rob Burrow, who was awarded the CBE in 2023.

Anyone can nominate someone for an honour. Go to https://www.gov.uk/honours to find out more.