People in Wiltshire recognised in New Year's Honours
From sustainable agriculture to veterans' welfare, these recipients are recognised for their contributions
A number of people in Wiltshire have been recognised with awards in the New Year's Honours for their contribution to society.
Five have become Member of the British Empire (MBE) for their dedicated efforts across a range of fields, including sustainable agriculture, veterans' welfare, and public rights of way.
Two people have been handed British Empire Medal's (BEM).
These awards highlight the transformative work of individuals who are making a significant impact across Wiltshire and beyond.
Richard Clothier MBE
Richard Clothier MBE, a 55-year-old entrepreneur from Wiltshire, has been honoured for his services to sustainable agriculture and food production.
Richard leads Wyke Farms, the UK's most sustainable cheesemaking farm, transforming it into one of Europe’s leading sustainable food producers. Under his leadership,
Wyke Farms employs 360 people, collaborates with 1,500 businesses nationally, and exports premium cheddar and butter to over 160 countries. Wyke Farms is also the only carbon-neutral producer among Britain’s top cheddar brands.
Richard Palusinski MBE
Richard Palusinski MBE, a 72-year-old from Chippenham, has been recognised for voluntary services to D-Day veterans.
As Chairman of the Spirit of Normandy Trust, Palusinski has worked tirelessly to organise commemorations and promote veterans' welfare.
His meticulous preparations for the D-Day 80 events included a week-long visit to Normandy for nine veterans, press conferences, and school engagements, ensuring their stories were documented and remembered globally.
Lt Colonel Rory Steevenson MBE
Lt Colonel (retired) Rory Steevenson MBE, aged 71 from Salisbury, received his honour for services to spinal injury research.
Since taking over as Director of the Inspire Foundation in 2012, Steevenson has transformed the organisation, growing it from two projects with £37,000 in funds to managing nine research projects with over £1.5 million in funding.
Even after his 2023 retirement, Steevenson continues to volunteer and guide the foundation’s efforts.
Phillip Wadey MBE
Phillip Wadey MBE, a 60-year-old from Corsham, has dedicated over 35 years to preserving public rights of way.
As a volunteer Access and Bridleways Officer with the British Horse Society, Wadey has worked across the UK to protect historic routes and expand access to the countryside.
His efforts to keep paths open despite legal challenges have benefited countless communities and individuals.
Richard Hilling MBE
Richard Hilling MBE, aged 76 from Swindon, has been recognised for his services to victims of trauma and Gulf War Syndrome.
An RAF veteran himself, Hilling established the Swindon Trauma Group in 2009 to support those affected by psychological trauma.
Despite battling Gulf War Syndrome and Parkinson’s Disease, Hilling continues to advocate for mental health awareness and trauma treatment equality.
Stephen Howe BEM
Stephen Howe BEM, 66, from Chippenham, has been recognised for his services to the community in Kington Langley, North Wiltshire.
Over the past 15 years, Stephen, alongside his wife, has developed and chaired a large Scarecrow Festival that has become a beloved annual event, attracting around 4,000 visitors from across the UK.
Under Stephen’s leadership, the festival has raised close to £100,000 for national and local charities, including village organisations such as the church, Union chapel, school, and local clubs. These funds have helped improve community facilities and operations. The festival also supports the local Air Cadets unit, helping them achieve BTEC qualifications, outdoor training experiences, and access to an aircraft simulator.
In addition to benefiting community groups, the festival nominates a charity each year for additional support through the Elizabeth Coles award, while boosting local businesses by providing opportunities to showcase and sell their goods during the event.
Elena Rossi BEM
Elena Rossi BEM, a 58-year-old from Swindon, has been honoured for her volunteer work supporting breastfeeding across Swindon and Wiltshire.
As the founder of "Breastmates," a network of free support groups, Elena has spent 19 years ensuring new parents have access to assistance during one of life’s most challenging transitions.
As a National Childbirth Trust breastfeeding counsellor, Elena helped organise "walk and talk" sessions during the pandemic, providing support at a time when new parents faced isolation. She also volunteers at Great Western Hospital’s maternity unit, where she trains others and helps mothers with breastfeeding.
Elena’s efforts are credited with a significant rise in local breastfeeding rates, increasing from 40.5% in 2010/11 to 50.3% in 2019/20. Her dedication inspires those around her, as she continues to deliver exemplary care and stand as a beacon of support for mothers in her community.