A trailblazing figure in English football history has been recognised in His Majesty the King's New Year Honours List. Kerry Davis, celebrated as the first Black woman to represent the England national team, has been appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).
A Pioneering Career Recognised
The Staffordshire-born former international receives the honour for her outstanding services to Association Football and to diversity in sport. Davis enjoyed a remarkable 16-year international career, during which she earned 90 caps and scored 43 goals for England. Her goal-scoring record stood unchallenged for many years, cementing her status as a true pioneer of the women's game.
Staffordshire's Community Pillars Celebrated
Davis, from Fradley, is among several Staffordshire residents acknowledged for their exceptional contributions. The county's New Year Honours list highlights leaders from various fields, including public health, higher education, charity, and community service. Their collective efforts underscore the significant impact local individuals have on their professions and neighbourhoods.
Martin Murray, Acting Leader of Staffordshire County Council, praised the honourees, stating: “The commitment, generosity and expertise of Staffordshire’s residents are some of the reasons why this county is the beating heart of the country.” He extended thanks on behalf of the community for their long-term dedication.
Widespread Acclaim for Local Service
Professor Liz Barnes CBE, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire, echoed these sentiments. “Staffordshire thrives because of the contribution and impact that so many people make to their local communities or more broadly to their specialisms in work where they go above and beyond,” she said. She expressed being humbled by the achievements accomplished through dedicated service and offered congratulations to all recipients.
The list of Staffordshire residents honoured includes:
Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
- Kerry Davis, of Fradley, for services to Association Football and to diversity in sport.
- Paul Kevin Hegarty, of Lichfield, trustee of the Licensed Trade Charity, for charitable service to the hospitality sector.
- Dr Catherine Louise Taylor-Weetman, of Whittington, consultant in dental public health, for services to dentistry.
Medallists of the Order of the British Empire (BEM)
- Susan Jane Bohanan, of Stafford, Special Constabulary coordinator, for services to the community.
- Philip John Charles, of Abbots Bromley, parish councillor, for community service.
- Russell David Clark, of Keele, Head of the Language Centre at Keele University, for services to Higher Education.
- Joan Catherine Fairley, of Hints, Tamworth, for services to the community in Sutton Coldfield.
- Richard Graham Hill, of Barlaston, for services to charity in Staffordshire.
- Charles Frederick Hodges, of Kinver, for services to the community in Enville, particularly for his commitment to St Mary’s bell tower.
