Author, broadcaster, journalist and patron of the Isle of Wight's Shanklin Theatre, John Suchet, was among those to be rewarded in the New Year's Honours.

He was handed an OBE for his services to journalism and charity.

Mr Suchet joined three Islanders on the list, as well as a Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary inspector, when the names were unveiled at the end of 2022.

As previously reported by the Isle of Wight County Press, Newport's Peter Jardine, a volunteer at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, was recognised with an MBE.

Isle of Wight County Press: Isle of Wight Steam Railway's Peter Jardine, MBE.Isle of Wight Steam Railway's Peter Jardine, MBE. (Image: Isle of Wight Steam Railway.)

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Isle of Wight County Press: Jon Gilbey, BEM.Jon Gilbey, BEM. (Image: James Pilbeam)

Steve Backhouse, general manager at Havenstreet said: “Pete’s contribution is truly immense. 

"[He] has spearheaded the restoration of our Victorian carriages. 

"The award is apt recognition of his skill, hard-work and dedication over many years."

Former mayor and councillor, businessman Jon Gilbey, from Shanklin, was handed a British Empire Medal (BEM), for his services to the community.

He told the County Press he was speechless and deeply honoured.

He said: "I had no idea until the email came through.

"I thought it was a prank email, so I had to phone up to verify!

"It’s one of those things where you don’t think it will ever happen to you.

"I am totally blown away. Totally shocked. It still hasn’t sunk in!"

From Ventnor, coastguard rescue officer Martin Raynor was been recognised for his services to maritime safety and received a BEM.

Isle of Wight County Press: Martin Raynor, BEM.Martin Raynor, BEM. (Image: MCA)

Isle of Wight County Press: King's Medal winner, Inspector Kelvin Shipp from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary..King's Medal winner, Inspector Kelvin Shipp from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.. (Image: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary)

He has been volunteering in the role for four decades and is due to retire soon.

He has also worked with Isle of Wight Scouts and the Isle of Wight Youth Concert Band.

Martin said: "I’m really honoured. My father was in the service before me so, between us, we have been a part of the coastguard family for around 70 years.

"I have had a fantastic time in the service, feeling I have given something back to the community. I certainly wouldn’t have done it if I didn’t enjoy it! 

"My family have supported me throughout and I couldn’t have done it without them."

Also recognised was former Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary inspector, Kelvin Shipp, who received the King’s Police Medal.

He said: "I had absolutely no idea I was being nominated for this honour, so to find out about this after my retirement was very humbling.

"It's a tremendous honour.”