Published: Wednesday, 31st December, 2008 9:30am

New Years Honours revealed

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SOME people will be starting the New Year with a great big smile on their face after receiving recognition in the Queen's New Year Honours.

Paralympic equestrian Sophie Christiansen, who won a team gold and individual gold at the Beijing Paralympic Games, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the British Empire) for her services to disabled sport.

Miss Christiansen, who has cerebral palsy, trains at South Bucks Riding for the Disabled in Fulmer.

She said: "It's amazing, at the age of 21 I didn't think it would be possible. It's such an honour and a shock. I thought they went to older people who do things to help people and then my mum pointed out that I'd been doing all types of events since I got back from Beijing so I have been helping people.

"My whole family is so proud of me but this honour is really for them. They have stood by me for 21 years and put up with the highs and lows and have been so supportive and I want them to recognise that this award is for them."

Maj Stephen Farley, a team GB quartermaster from Windsor, was also awarded an MBE for his services to sport.

Joan Hughes, entries secretary for the Royal Windsor Horse Show, was awarded the Royal Victorian Order (MVO).

Another MVO was awarded to Roger Judd, formerly assistant Organist at St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle.

The Royal Victorian Medal (RVM) was awarded to Kenneth Jones, Head Groundsman at the Crown Estate, Windsor.

The Queen's Fire Service Medal (QFSM) was awarded to Iain Cox, Chief Fire Officer at Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

John Madejski OBE, who was a benefactor for the Theatre Royal, Windsor, received a Knighthood for his charitable services.