Covid heroes’ royal seal of approval

THE Queen will today name the heroes of the pandemic who are to be awarded special gongs in her birthday honours list.

She will be rewarding no fewer than 414 people who gave up their time or went beyond the call of duty to help others during the coronavirus crisis.

Among those recognised are doctors, nurses and other health workers who risked their lives to keep their patients safe.

Nursing director Felicia Kwaku, 52, who was made an OBE for championing black and ethnic minority nurses, said: “This is about my fallen colleagues.”

The list also includes volunteers and dozens of fundraisers who generated millions of pounds for the NHS or welfare charities.

Several members of Sage, the Government’s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies, are also in line for awards.

Celebrities to be thanked for their help include England football star Marcus Rashford, who is to be made an MBE for his free school meals crusade and singer Lady Leshurr who has won a BEM for her hand- washing reminder rap.

In total, 1,495 people received honours this year, with health and social care workers making up 14 per cent of the figures. The youngest recipient is 16- year- old Theodore Wride, who has been awarded a BEM for service to his community in Sunderland during lockdown.

The list includes 740 women which represents 49 per cent of recipients. A total of 13 per cent are from black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds – making it the most diverse list to date. Boris Johnson said: “This year’s honours recipients are a testament to the sort of country we are – caring, compassionate and resolute in the face of a global pandemic.

“The hard work and dedication of these local, often unsung heroes has helped carry us through.”