In this year’s King’s Birthday Honours, former England football captain David Beckham has been knighted, describing it as a “truly humbling honour.” Knighted alongside celebrated actor Gary Oldman and legendary musician Roger Daltrey, Sir David reflected on his journey from east London to becoming a national icon. Having received an OBE in 2003, the knighthood recognizes his profound contributions to sport and his country.
Gloucestershire also shines with numerous honours awarded to its residents. Among them are Margaret Blyth, Chief Constable of Gloucestershire Police; Timothy Gwilliam, a dedicated Forest of Dean councillor; Cheltenham-based musician Steve Winwood; and former Gloucestershire cricket bowler David Lawrence, who was recently diagnosed with motor neurone disease. These recognitions highlight a diverse range of services from community leadership to the arts.
Television personalities Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, both prominent figures in British broadcasting, were made Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). Teen darts stars Luke Littler and Luke Humphries also share this honour. Esteemed actress and singer Elaine Paige and acclaimed novelist Pat Barker received damehoods, marking their significant cultural contributions.
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Sir David Beckham expressed heartfelt gratitude, reminiscing about his upbringing and pride in representing England: “To have played for and captained my country was the greatest privilege of my career, and literally a boyhood dream come true.”
Both Daly and Winkleman were surprised by their MBEs. Daly shared how the honour nearly went undelivered due to an address error, while Winkleman celebrated with plans to wear a hat and dance the paso doble with Daly in gratitude.
Prominent sculptor Sir Antony Gormley, best known for the Angel of the North, was named a Companion of Honour—a prestigious distinction held by only 65 members at any time—for his services to art.
Sir Gary Oldman, recognized for his remarkable acting career including his Oscar-winning role as Winston Churchill and his portrayal in the Harry Potter series, was honoured for services to drama.
The honours list includes more than 1,200 recipients nationwide, featuring political figures such as Penny Mordaunt, who was awarded a damehood. Mordaunt acknowledged the collective support behind her achievements.
In Gloucestershire, David Lawrence, who took 625 wickets for the county and faces motor neurone disease, was delighted to receive an MBE. He sees the honour as part of his legacy and a symbol of hope to raise awareness and funds for research.
The honours span across multiple ranks and services, from Dames Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) to Commanders (CBE), Officers (OBE), Members (MBE), and the King’s Police Medal (KPM). Recipients include individuals from fields such as child safeguarding, nursing, environmental conservation, veterans’ support, digital transformation, education, mental health, and more — underscoring dedication and exceptional contributions throughout communities, particularly Gloucestershire.
This King’s Birthday Honours list vividly illustrates the breadth of talent and commitment across the UK, celebrating heroes who inspire, serve, and enrich society.