Honours system has room for the worthy

The distribution of New Year Honours may have been tainted slightly in the jaded eyes of the British public in recent times. Politicians rewarding each other for loyal service is never likely to find wide favour and people have long since seen through the practice of giving gongs to celebrities to maintain interest in the honours system.

But where they always have served a vital purpose – and will continue to do so – is in recognising formerly unsung heroes who do not enjoy the exposure and column inches of less-deserving recipients.

Pop stars, actors, MPs and sports players can add their honours to their award and trophy cabinets and go back to counting their – often tax-free – millions.

But the scientists, community champions, volunteers and those who keep our streets safe receive little thanks for their hours of dedication.

Their trip to Buckingham Palace or Holyroodhouse and the addition of letters after their names is a once-in-alifetime opportunity to get what they deserve.

It is all too easy to sneer at one of the great, albeit quirky, traditions of British life.

But do not forget, in doing so, one risks casting unfair aspersions on the work of those who truly deserve to be honoured as we enter the new year.

For that reason, we are glad to highlight our winners from Tayside and Fife and offer heartfelt congratulations.