Frontline workers who played a key role in the coronavirus pandemic response will be recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours next month, the Prime Minister has said.

Boris Johnson praised the “dedication, courage and compassion” shown by the recipients, who will be honoured along with people recognised for a broad range of achievements. 

The list was due to be published in June but was pushed back to enable nominations for people playing crucial roles during the first months of the pandemic. 

Mr Johnson asked in May for nominations of those who have gone over and above in their response to Covid-19.

The list, to be published on October 10, will include doctors, nurses, fundraisers and volunteers who stepped up amid the crisis. 

Mr Johnson said: “As we all redouble our efforts to control the virus, protect the NHS and save lives this winter, I am pleased we have an opportunity to recognise those who have given so much to this country already.

“The coronavirus pandemic is the greatest health challenge in our lifetime. 

“We all have to play our part, but the dedication, courage and compassion seen from these recipients, be it responding on the front line or out in their communities providing support to the most vulnerable, is an inspiration to us all.

“We owe them a debt of gratitude and the 2020 Queen’s Birthday honours will be the first of many occasions where we can thank them as a nation”.

Captain Sir Tom Moore was knighted by the Queen for his fundraising efforts during a unique open-air ceremony at Windsor Castle in July.