Space expert and teacher in King's Honours list
A space expert from Horsham has been awarded an OBE in the King's Birthday Honours List for services to aerospace.
William Whitehorn is among 78 people in the South East who have been recognised for their contributions to public life in the UK this year.
These include The Who frontman Roger Daltrey, who has a home in Sussex, who has been made a Sir for his services to charity and music.
Meanwhile, Jo Berry, whose father Anthony Berry was killed in the Brighton bombing while an MP, has been made a CBE for her services to peace and reconciliation.
Mr Whitehorn, who used to be the president of Virgin Galactic, has played key roles in allowing private companies access to space, as well as retaining post-Brexit access to the EU space programme.
He says his OBE shows the growing importance of the space industry in the UK.
Mr Whitehorn told BBC South East: "You're seeing new ideas in space, all of which are crucial in things like the battle against climate change."
He said he was looking forward to seeing the King and added how proud his mother would have been.
"I just wish my mum was still alive to witness this. She would have been absolutely made up," he added.
Other recipients include farrier David Nichols, from Worthing, who has been given a BEM for services towards horse welfare.
Mr Nichols has been awarded the honour for helping to increase the standards of farriery worldwide.
During his 50-year career, he has become the director of the Equine Lameness Prevention Organisation.
Emma Phillips, deputy head at Limpsfield Grange School in Oxted, has also received a BEM for her services to education, particularly for her work with girls with autism.
A statement from the palace said: "She makes time for everyone and responds to every parent's concern, no matter how big or small."
Paul Dennington, from Kent, has also been awarded a BEM for raising about £50,000 for Prostate Cancer UK.
His efforts included running three marathons in three days.
Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.
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