The leader of Hertsmere Council is “deeply honoured” to be recognised in the New Year’s Honours List.

Cllr Morris Bright – who began his journalism career as a reporter for the Borehamwood Times in 1989 – will receive an MBE for services to local government.

He said: "I am humbled and deeply honoured to have received an MBE from HM The Queen in the New Year Honours. I am moved by all the good wishes that have come through from both staff and elected members from several tiers of local government and from all political parties.

“I am only as good as the people around me and in Hertsmere's case I really have had the very best to assist and guide me through almost 20 years on the council and 10 years as Leader.

“I am grateful to all who work with me to try and make Hertsmere the best place it can be."

Elected to Hertsmere Borough Council in 1999. Has been a member of the Executive since the beginning back in 2000. Six years as Community Safety Portfolio Holder introducing PCSOs to Hertsmere.

Cllr Bright is the longest serving leader of the council after taking over in October 2007.

He has also been chairman of Elstree Film Studios Ltd since April 2007, which is owned by the council.

Through his role he has overseen the removal of the contaminated mound at the bag of the site and also introduced the Hertfordshire Filming on the Highways Act.

Cllr Bright has been a Hertfordshire County Councillor since 2009 and is also the deputy cabinet member for resources after previously holding deputy roles in Community Safety and in Education.

Chief Executive of Hertsmere Borough Council, Donald Graham added: “The award of an MBE to Morris recognises his many years of outstanding service to local communities here in Hertsmere, both as a borough councillor and, over the past decade, as leader of the council.

“Morris is a highly committed and diligent politician who is dedicated to public service. He is recognised across the region as a leading councillor and community advocate.

“I’m pleased to see his hard work here in Hertsmere being acknowledged in this way.”

A number of high profile names have also made the list in honour of their work and contributions to society.

Former Deputy Prime Minister and Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg will receive a knighthood, along with Beatles drummer Ringo Starr and Bee Gees singer Barry Gibb.

Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell will become a dame and author Jilly Cooper and TV chef Rick Stein will receive CBEs.