The Brighter Borough has once again shown itself to be a leading light with close to 20 people who live or work in Wandsworth granted honours by the Queen.

Wandsworth collected two knighthoods, two Commander of the British Empire (CBE) honours, three Officer of the British Empire (OBE) titles and 11 other gongs in the New Year's honours list.

TV star Sandi Toksvig, who lives on a houseboat in Wandsworth, has been awarded an OBE for services to broadcasting.

The Danish born comedian currently presents The News Quiz on BBC Radio 4 and has written more than 20 books.

Ian Michael Cheshire, chief executive of Kingfisher plc, of Balham, is to be knighted for his services to business, sustainability and the environment.

Peer Julian Roger Seymour CBE, of Battersea, will also receive a knighthood for public services.

Stefan Paul Allesch-Taylor is to receive a CBE for his philanthropic work in the UK Africa while Donna May Covey will get a CBE for services to human rights. 

Headteacher of Bousfield Primary School, Cornelia Ellen Cooling, of Balham, is being awarded an OBE for her services to Education.

Michael Morris Hayman, of Wandsworth, has been awarded an MBE for services to enterprise, promotion, entrepreneurship.

Mr Hayman co-founded StartUp Britain and now has 33 people working for his business Seven Hills, in Point Pleasant, Wandsworth.

He said: "I am absolutely thrilled. I didn't expect it all, it has been a bolt from the blue.

"We are entrepreneurs, we wanted to work with other entrepreneurs and that is what our business is about - campaigning for local causes."

Charity workers Edward John Lloyd, of Battersea, and Muhammad Khawar Amin Mann, of Barnes have also been recognised on the list.

The British Empire Medal, awarded for meritorious civil or military service, was given to play leader Rosemary Chandler, of Battersea, who works at the Bolingbroke Playgroup.

Cleaner Madeline Josephine Hennell, of Battersea, will be handed a medal for her services to 10 Downing Street.