The King’s New Year Honours List 2025 celebrates Welsh individuals for their remarkable contributions to society and community.
Cardiff: This New Year, a bunch of amazing folks from Wales are being celebrated for their incredible contributions. Among them is rugby legend Gerald Davies, who was totally taken aback when he found out he was getting a knighthood. Can you believe it?
At 79, Sir Gerald has made a name for himself not just in rugby but also through his charitable work. He’s one of the few players to have snagged three Grand Slams, which is no small feat! He shared how humbled he felt by the honour, crediting his family for their support.
But he’s not the only one getting recognized. A total of 58 people from Wales made it onto the King’s New Year Honours List for 2025. This year, the focus is on community champions and those who give selflessly to others. It’s all about celebrating the unsung heroes who make a difference in their communities.
Take Richard Parry from Cardiff, for instance. He’s receiving a BEM for his contributions to music and choral singing. He’s worked with some of the biggest names in the industry and has been with the Pendyrus Male Choir since 1973. That’s dedication!
Then there’s Diane Locke from Penrhiwceiber, who’s also getting a BEM. She’s been a powerhouse in her community, working hard to uplift underprivileged areas and support vulnerable groups. Her work transforming Lee Gardens Pool into a community hub is just one of her many achievements.
Moawia Bin-Sufyan from Cardiff is another standout, earning an MBE for his efforts in promoting community cohesion and interfaith relations. He’s been a key player in fostering dialogue and understanding in South Wales for over two decades.
And let’s not forget Sabrina Fortune from Mold, who’s making waves in athletics. She’s recognized as the world’s leading women’s F20 shot putter, with multiple titles under her belt, including gold at the 2024 Paralympics. Talk about inspiring!
These honours highlight the incredible work done by ordinary people every day. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasized how these individuals embody the spirit of service that’s so vital to the UK. It’s a beautiful reminder of the impact we can all have in our communities.
So, hats off to all the recipients! Their hard work and dedication truly deserve this recognition, and it’s heartwarming to see such a diverse group of people being celebrated.
