Congratulations all those who have been recognised in the Queen’s New Year Honours.

Among the 50 awards for Wales, is one of Wales’ leading scientists has been awarded a Damehood in this years honours.

Monmouth-born Dr Jennifer Margaret Harries, OBE, the chief executive of the UK Health Security Agency is now a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) Dr Harries played a key role in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic.

Dr Harries devised, developed and implemented the clinical shielding policy to protect the clinically vulnerable and has worked through the Covid-19 pandemic to identify the group of those clinically extremely vulnerable.

Usk resident Mr Gerald Beaumont has been awarded an OBE for services to people with disabilities in Wales. Mr Beaumont has improved the lives of hundreds of disabled people across Wales since 2007 through his fundraising efforts, handyman help, fitness and welllbeing support and logistical efforts. He has raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity.

Monmouthshire County Councillor, Maureen Powell has been recognised for her services to the community. Mrs Powell, of Abergavenny, who receives the Order of the British Empire Medal (BEM) has worked tirelessly for 30 years supporting local communities. The Castle ward councillor was first elected to Monmouthshire County Council in 2008 and has previously served as chairwoman in 2012 and 2017 and as Mayor of Abergavenny.

Derek Warren of Caldicot received the accolade of BEM for services to young adults in South Wales. Mr Warren is a Warrant Officer for No.1 Welsh Wing of the Air Training Corps, where he was served as a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer since 1969.

Simon Lee has also been awarded an MBE for services to sport and wellbeing.