Volunteers and public sector workers in east London and west Essex have been recognised for their work in the New Year’s Honours list.

Girl Guide leader, Janice Pettit, has been handed an MBE for services to youth work and the community in Waltham Forest.

Mrs Pettit has worked with the organisation for more than 45 years, managing funds and organising events for guide groups in Chingford, Wanstead and Woodford.

Wendy Matthews, director of midwifery and deputy chief nurse at Barking, Havering, and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust (BHRUT), has been awarded an OBE for services to midwifery.

Scout volunteer, Dean Milton will also receive a British Empire Medal for service to young people and charitable fundraising.

Mr Milton, of Chigwell, served as leader of 11th Ilford North Scouts and has spent time regional commissioner of the Scout Association in Greater London.

Nationally, a string of high profile names have been handed top honours on the list.

Beatles drummer Ringo Star will receive a knighthood, as will former Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg children’s author Michael Morpurgo and Bee Gees singer Barry Gibb.

Actor Hugh Laurie will be handed a CBE, while veteran broadcaster Eamonn Holmes receives an OBE.