People from Devon and Cornwall Win King's Awards for Helping Others

Twenty-four people from Devon and Cornwall won special awards from King Charles III this year. These people got the King's Birthday Honours for 2026 because they helped make their communities better. The awards went to teachers, police officers, charity workers, and many other helpers. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said these people show how real change happens through caring about others.

Ian David Piper from Honiton got the biggest award called a CBE. He won this honor for his work in housing and helping rebuild communities. Only one person in Devon and Cornwall received this top award this year. CBE stands for Commander of the British Empire, which is a very special honor.

Beryl Richards from Falmouth also won an important award called an MBE. She makes TV shows and movies for children and has won five BAFTA awards. Richards focuses on telling stories about people who don't often get heard. Her work has made children's television better for kids across the UK.

Many other local heroes also received awards for their good work. Stewart William Muir started the Shaldon Wildlife Trust and helps protect animals. Hannah May Sloggett from Plymouth helps build stronger communities through her charity work. Assistant Chief Officer Alexis Mary Poole of Devon and Cornwall Police got honored for making policing better.

The King's Birthday Honours included 1,182 people from all over the United Kingdom. People from the South West made up 7% of all the winners. The list included foster parents, sports heroes, health workers, and many volunteers. These awards happen every year to celebrate people who make a real difference in other people's lives.