A part-time naval office from Preston was awarded the Queen's Volunteer Reserves Medal for outstanding service.

Commander Simon Ryan, who commands HMS Eaglet in Liverpool, has served with the RNR for 20 years.

Cdr Ryan, 49, started his military service with the city's HMS Palatine, took part in several multi-national exercises, and has seen active service as acting commander with the International Security Assistance Force in Kabul.

In his civilian life, he has worked in the insurance industry for 24 years, and is married to wife, Alison. He said: "I was completely amazed and, of course, very honoured."

The leader of Lancashire County Council, Hazel Harding, was made a CBE for her services to local government.

County Councillor Harding was first elected to the council in Rossendale West division in 1985 and has served on numerous committees and as chair of the county council in 1997/8.

She said: "My daughters will be able to see that all those times I was late home because of council meetings has been worth it. It's very nice when the hard work you put in is recognised in this way."

Also honoured was Stephen McNair, head of Aircraft Services at BAE Systems, who was also made a CBE for his services to the defence industry.