There are more than 1,100 recipients across the country in The King’s New Year Honours list for 2026, including more than 25 people in Essex and hundreds of Londoners.
Among the names are numerous inspirational people with links to Brentwood and Havering, such as founder and chairman of charity Challenging Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Alexander Gibson, who has been made an MBE for charitable services.
Other people on the list include Asma Haq, a chemical engineer and co-founder of Marks Gate Relief Project, who was recognised for her services to the communities in Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Redbridge.
Famous faces with links to east London and Essex are also among recipients in this year’s list.
This includes Hackney-born actor Idris Elba, who was knighted for his services to young people, and author and TV presenter Richard Osman, was honoured with an OBE for services to literature and broadcasting.
After the list was released, Prime Minister Sir 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.”
New Year Honours list recipients with links to Havering and Brentwood
Richard Stewart Austin – Fundraiser. For services to Charitable Fundraising and Rugby (Brentwood, Essex)
Alexander Gibson BEM – Founder and Chair, Challenging Motor Neurone Disease. For Charitable Service (Brentwood, Essex)
Roger Charles Hirst – Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Essex. For services to Policing and to Community Safety (Brentwood, Essex)
Martin Denis Solder – Chief Executive Officer, Essex Boys and Girls Clubs. For services to Young People (London, Greater London)
Asma Reyaz Haq – Founder, Marks Gate Relief Project. For services to the communities in the London Boroughs of Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Redbridge (London, Greater London)
