His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours List 2025 acknowledges the contributions of over 1,200 individuals across the UK, celebrating their dedication to public service and community welfare.
Recognising Selfless Service
The New Year Honours List 2025, announced on December 30, 2024, highlights the exceptional achievements of individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields, including community service, sports, healthcare, and public service.
This annual honours list is a tradition that recognises and rewards the good works of citizens across the 15 Commonwealth realms.
Honours and Appointments
The list includes a wide range of honours, such as Knights Bachelor, the Order of the Companions of Honour, the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, and the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George.
Notably, former England men’s senior football manager Gareth Southgate has been awarded a Knighthood for his services to association football, following his successful tenure that included leading England to successive EURO finals and a World Cup semi-final.
Broad Impact on Communities
The honours list reflects the government’s commitment to recognising the diverse contributions of individuals from all sectors of society. Additionally, it includes community champions, grassroots football volunteers, and dedicated public servants.
For instance, Ronald Westerman, founder of the Midlincs County Youth Football League, has been awarded an MBE for his services to sport, while Rachel Davies and Ian Walker have been recognised with British Empire Medals (BEM) for their contributions to local communities and sports.
Central Impact
- Over 1,200 individuals recognised for their contributions to public service and community welfare.
- Honours announced on December 30, 2024, as part of the New Year celebrations.
- Recognition spans various fields, including sports, healthcare, and community service.
Official Response
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said:
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.
The New Year Honours List celebrates more of these unsung heroes, and I thank them for their incredible contribution.
Current Status
- More than 1,200 recipients have been awarded honours in the 2025 list.
- This year’s list continues the tradition of recognising a diverse range of contributions, ensuring the honours system remains inclusive and representative of UK society.
- The honours system aims to encourage more nominations from the public to recognize unsung heroes across the UK.
Regional Effects
The honours list has a significant impact on local communities, as it highlights the work of individuals who have made a difference in their regions.
For example, in Antigua and Barbuda, the government has honoured several individuals with awards such as the Order of the British Empire for their contributions to the community and public service.
“These honours are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our community champions, who have made a real difference in the lives of others.”
Debbie Hewitt MBE, FA Chair.
The Takeaway
The New Year Honours List 2025 is a celebration of the selfless service and achievements of individuals who have contributed significantly to their communities and the nation. It serves as a reminder of the importance of public service and community engagement.
The recognition of these individuals not only honours their work but also inspires others to follow in their footsteps, fostering a culture of service and compassion across the UK.
