THE rich tapestry of life in Essex today is truly reflected in the list of recipients of national honours published on the occasion of the King’s Birthday 2025. Recognition is shared between individuals whose lives and careers stand as role models for others in the community. Many different contributions are recognised, including in the fields of national defence, local government, business, education, race relations, the emergency services, culture, the environment, sport and local community service.
We note the recognition of Gavin Jones who is made CBE for services to local government. Until lately Chief Executive of Essex County Council, he had previously served as Chief Executive of Swindon Borough Council. Widely acknowledged for his leadership and expertise, he is an advisor to councils elsewhere in the south east and makes a positive difference for people in many walks of life, including as a trustee for charities involved in health, wellbeing and community development.
Meanwhile, for services involving young people, for example:
Rebekah Liyambo, Chief Executive Officer of EKO Trust, is awarded an OBE for services to education. She has been with the Trust since 2016 and has overseen the growth of a high performing academy trust responsible for 10 schools in Essex and elsewhere;
Alex Boucher receives an MBE for services to the gaming industry and entrepreneurship. He is the founder and managing director of Analog and recognised for encouraging and promoting young talent that might otherwise have gone unrecognised;
Richard Titchener receives an MBE. Richard is Chief Executive of the Sea-Change Sailing Trust and captain of the “Blue Mermaid”, a Thames sailing barge based at Maldon. He is recognised for his contribution to sailing and, in particular, his work with young people.
Commenting on the list of recipients, Mrs Jennifer Tolhurst, Lord-Lieutenant of Essex, the King’s personal representative in the county, said:
“As a county, we can be justly proud of all the individuals who have received national honours. Each person in their unique way will have done something exceptional. It is right that they should be recognised in this way.
I would encourage anyone who knows someone, who is making a big difference to others in their community, to nominate them for a national honour and so to seek public recognition at the highest level of their contribution to society.”
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