A ROAD safety campaigner, Girl Guide leaders, charity volunteers and a University of York academic are among local people recognised in the New Year’s Honours.

They join the usual galaxy of TV stars, sporting heroes, artists and writers – not to mention civil servants – who have also received gongs.

Whatever you think of the Honours, they remain at their best a great way to recognise the efforts of those who have given something back.

So congratulations to all those honoured – and Happy New Year to everyone else.