The New Year Honours List for 2026 has been published, and we are delighted to announce that several outstanding individuals from Cumbria have been recognised for their exceptional contributions to public service, community life, and professional achievement.
The UK Honours system celebrates people who have gone above and beyond to make a positive difference in society. This year’s recipients from Cumbria include:
Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
- Mrs Claire Gallery-Strong
Corporate Services Director, Nuclear Waste Services
For services to the Nuclear Industry
(Gosforth, Seascale, Whitehaven) - Mr Gary McKee
Fundraiser
For services to Charity and to the community in Cleator Moor
(Cleator Moor) - Mr Charles David Owen Morris
For services to Cinema in the North of England
(Lindale, Grange-over-Sands) - Mrs Catherine Mary Parums
Head of Remembrance Events, The Royal British Legion
For services to National Commemorative Events
(Heversham, Milnthorpe) - Miss Georgia Marie Stanway
For services to Association Football
(Barrow-in-Furness)
Medallists of the Order of the British Empire (BEM)
- Mrs Nina Bale
For services to the Homeless Community in Kendal (Crooklands, Milnthorpe) - Mrs Frances Elizabeth Hill
Caretaker, John Ruskin School For services to Education
(Coniston) - Mrs Susan Holliday
Special Constable, Cumbria Constabulary. For services to Policing and to the community in Cumbria (Biglands, Wigton) - Mrs Christine Marie Pattinson
Volunteer, Distington Big Local. For services to the community in Distington, West Cumbria (Distington)
Anyone can nominate someone for a UK Honour through the open-access system. Honours are awarded to people from all walks of life following a rigorous process involving the Honours Committee, the Prime Minister, and final approval by HM The King. The process can take up to 18 months, with announcements made in the New Year and Birthday Honours Lists.
Nomination forms and guidance are available via the Cumbria Lieutenancy website.
HM Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, Mr Alexander Scott, said:
"It’s a moment of great pride for our county to see so many Cumbrian residents recognised for their remarkable contributions to our communities. Being awarded an Honour is a truly significant achievement, and I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the recipients.
I encourage everyone to think about individuals who consistently go above and beyond for others—whether through exceptional service to their community or outstanding dedication in their work. By nominating someone, you can help ensure their extraordinary efforts have the opportunity to be celebrated and acknowledged."