FORGET the Whitehall Sir Humphreys who collect gongs with the regularity that the rest of us receive gas bills.

There are some extraordinary people on the New Year's Honours List who deserve their awards as much as they will cherish them.

People such as Tug Wilson. Mr Wilson is one of the army of volunteers without whom our society would be so much poorer. Fifty years in the York Sea Cadets, he has introduced countless youngsters to the excitement of life on the water. Every one of them will be delighted for him.

Two more recipients of the MBE are York alderman and city servant Jack Archer, and John Saville, whose charity work takes in the York Boys' Club and York Against Cancer. These men have given something back, and they are an example to all.

Others are recognised for their contributions in specialised fields. Anyone who has attended a talk on flower arranging by George Smith will know that he has a gift for creating fabulous floral displays, and for communicating his passion for life.

Elsewhere, there are honours for people working in fields as diverse as health, the prison service, science, the RAF and the railways.

One of the star names of this year's list also has strong local connections. Arise Sir Clive Woodward, ex-Easingwold School pupil and the guiding force behind England's Rugby World Cup win.

The decision to honour every member of the winning squad is politically astute: New Labour still knows how to ride on the coat-tails of others' popularity.

There are quibbles with this year's list. It seems to be dominated by men. And there are always unsung heroes who have missed out. For them, there is always next year.

Updated: 10:38 Wednesday, December 31, 2003