West Brom Footballer And Wolverhampton Star Take New Year's Honours

31 December 2014, 13:55 | Updated: 31 December 2014, 14:15

The New Year’s honours list has been announced, giving top titles to local leaders and famous names.

Former West Brom defender Brendan Baston nabbed New Year’s honours a second time, receiving an MBE.   The footballer and equality advisor was chosen for his services to the sport.

Another two-time honouree was Wolverhampton’s Meera Syal.  The writer and actress is known for telly roles in ‘Goodness Gracious Me’ and ‘The Kumars at No. 42’.  Picking up a CBE, Syal is one of many celebrities on the list.

Legend Joan Collins said becoming a dame is “humbling” and that she’s “thrilled and truly grateful” to be on the Queen’s list.  James Corden has been awarded an OBE and said “I feel very lucky to be born in a country where creativity is both encouraged and valued.”

Local honourees include the Hippodrome’s chief executive Stuart Mark Griffiths and April Barrett, chair of Birmingham Disability Sports Forum.  Former West Midlands Police constable, Matt Baggott, received a knighthood.  Solihull’s Sir Matt credited the award to the “courage, commitment and achievements of my policing colleagues.”