The King's New Year Honours list for 2024 has been unveiled, celebrating a host of notable figures from across the United Kingdom for their outstanding contributions. Among the recipients is a distinguished Scottish contingent, including celebrated sports broadcaster Gabby Logan, businesswoman and former Heart of Midlothian FC chair Ann Budge, and the man credited with saving Celtic Football Club, Fergus McCann.
Sporting and Broadcasting Icons Honoured
Gabby Logan has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to sports broadcasting and charity. The 52-year-old presenter, married to former Scotland rugby star Kenny Logan, expressed being "absolutely stunned, utterly delighted and humbled" by the recognition.
Logan, who began her broadcasting career in 1992 and joined the BBC in 2007, has been a prominent voice covering major events like the Olympics, World Cups, and the Invictus Games. She highlighted the transformative period for women's sport, noting the "brilliant and heartwarming" sight of young girls now regularly attending football and rugby clubs. Her award also acknowledges her charitable work with Muscular Dystrophy UK and the My Name’s Doddie Foundation.
Meanwhile, Ann Budge receives an OBE for services to sport and the community in Midlothian. The 77-year-old businesswoman stepped down as Hearts chairman earlier this month after more than 11 years, a period during which her crucial investment rescued the club from administration in 2014. She later brokered a deal securing a £10 million investment from Brighton owner Tony Bloom.
Budge described the honour as "an incredibly proud moment," emphasising her passion for transforming the club's relationship with its local community. A Hearts spokesman paid tribute, stating it was a "fitting tribute that 'Queen Ann' be recognised by King Charles III."
Business, Music, and Public Service Recognition
Scottish-Canadian businessman Fergus McCann has been made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). Fondly remembered as "the man who saved Celtic," McCann orchestrated the financial rescue of the Glasgow club in the 1990s, preventing its collapse. His CBE recognises services to the economy and charity.
In the world of music, Eve Graham, the Perth-born singer who found fame with the 1970s group The New Seekers, is awarded an MBE. The band enjoyed international success with hits like I'd Like To Teach The World To Sing, represented the UK at Eurovision in 1972, and performed at President Richard Nixon's inauguration ball.
Jo Farrell, the Chief Constable of Police Scotland, has been awarded the King's Police Medal for her significant contribution to policing. The award comes months after reports revealed she had claimed over £130,000 in relocation expenses to help purchase a second home in Scotland.
Unsung Heroes Celebrated
The honours list also shines a light on remarkable individuals whose actions have had a profound impact. Ashta 'Ash' McMillan, a Royal Navy sailor from Scotland, receives an MBE. While visiting his native St Vincent and the Grenadines in July, he used his naval expertise to coordinate the relief effort after Storm Beryl devastated the islands with 165mph winds. His swift actions are credited with saving lives.
Scientific innovation is honoured with a damehood for Professor Lorna Dawson, head of forensic soil science at Aberdeen's James Hutton Institute. Her pioneering work has been pivotal in major criminal cases, including the conviction of World's End murderer Angus Sinclair and the trial for the murders of Renee MacRae and her son.
Other notable Scottish recipients include specialist Glasgow midwife Hilary Alba, who is awarded an MBE. The list features UK-wide stars such as ice dancing legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean and actor Warwick Davis.
