COMMUNITY stalwarts are celebrating across north east Essex after being awarded in the New Year honours’ list.

MBE’s and British Empire Medals have been handed out to residents for their services to local government, sport and mental health.

Among those recognised and set for a trip to Buckingham Palace are John Gillan, of Manningtree, for his work with the border force at the Home Office.

Sam Duerden, of Colchester, is also set to get an MBE for his work with humanitarian crises with his job at the International Rescue Committee.

Lauren Kilbey, 56, who works at Colchester, Clacton and Harwich Job Centre Plus offices, has also been recognised for her work with disadvantaged and vulnerable people with an MBE.

She said: “It is truly a great honour and privilege to be recognised in such a phenomenal way.

“I was totally stunned when I received the news. It is great being paid for doing a job I love and to be awarded like this is fantastic.

“I love my team and I love my job helping people get over multiple challenges in their life and to help people make the most of the skills they have.”

Lauren, who has worked with the Department for Work and Pensions for 36 years, was awarded for going above and beyond her duties.

Another person set to get an MBE is real tennis champion Robert Fahey.

Originally from Australia, Robert now lives in Feering and was recognised for his work with the sport.

British Empire Medals were also awarded to Witham’s Corinne Winwood, youth chairman of Braintree Rugby Club for her services to youth rugby, and mental health champion Katrina Whittaker.

Katrina, of Braintree, became a carer for her son Mark after he was diagnosed with Schizophrenia about 20 years ago.

In 2008 she set up the Braintree Rethink Art Group, providing support for carers of those with severe mental illness. She also runs a support group for carers of people living with mental illness.

She said: “I was so surprised when I found out I had been given this honour, I had to read the letter four times before it sunk in.

“I was absolutely thrilled.”