A LARGE part of the Tyne Valley music community nearly didn t get his New Year s honour. Stuart Stokell, who is the assistant musical director and accompanist to the Hexham Male Voice Choir and also the accompanist to the Ovingham and District Choir, was awarded the BEM for his work in the Brampton community, in which he lives and works as a freelance organist, pianist and singer and a celebrant for secular funerals. He also runs the Brampton community choir which has, in itself, raised money for charity as well as giving concerts to local organisations. As an individual, it’s estimated Stuart has raised much more than £150,000 through sky-dives, sponsored walks and other fund-raisers.
Horse & Hound
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A legendary former jockey, top racing figures and those who have changed lives for the better are among the list of those named in the 2021 New Year Honours List.
Bob Champion was appointed CBE for charitable services to prostate and testicular cancer research. Bob was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1979 and given weeks to live, but two years later (pictured) won the Grand National on Aldaniti, a horse who had overcome serious leg injuries.
Bob was appointed MBE after that win, which also led to the setting up of the Bob Champion Cancer Trust, as many of those who had backed him sent their winnings to the Royal Marsden Hospital. Bob paid tribute to all those at the trust, which has raised some £15m, for the honour, adding that he was very surprised but “absolutely chuffed”.
New Year Honours: Lewis Hamilton knighted as Rob Burrow becomes MBE
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Lewis Hamilton won a seventh F1 world championship in 2020
Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has been knighted in the Queen s New Year Honours list.
The Briton, 35, sealed a seventh drivers title at the Turkish Grand Prix in November - equalling Michael Schumacher s championships record.
Rugby league legend
Rob Burrow is made an MBE for services to rugby and his awareness campaign since being diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
British Billie Jean King Cup captain
Anne Keothavong also becomes an MBE.
The former British number one, 37, represented Great Britain in the event - previously known as the Fed Cup - before becoming captain in 2016.