Health and Social Care Minister David Ashford has been awarded the MBE for his leadership of the department during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mr Ashford is one of seven residents to be honoured by The Queen and one of three to received Covid-19 honours in the island.

A statement from Government House said: ’Mr Ashford has been at the centre of the Island’s efforts to suppress the spread and has shown strong leadership of the Health and Social Care Services.

’He has absorbed medical information and presented it to the public in a clear and understandable way.

’He has expertly answered questions at press briefings with kindness and humour in equal measure. He has instilled confidence at a challenging time for all and has shown selfless commitment and an unquestionable sense of duty.’

Consultant urologist Peter Duffy has also been awarded the MBE for outstanding support to the Isle of Man during the pandemic. During the lockdown, he was not able to continue his surgical work so dedicated his efforts to helping patients and staff.

Dr Duffy fed and washed patients, served meals, cleaned and changed beds and even sat with and read to end of life patients when their families couldn’t be with them.

Gareth Hinge, a coach at Ramsey Rugby Club has also been awarded the MBE for outstanding community service during the pandemic.

He organised a team of club members to support their community through arranging collection and delivery of food supplies and medicines across the north of the island.

Away from Covid-19 honours, Mark Kenyon, a volunteer with Ramsey RNLI for over 30 years, has been awarded the MBE for his outstanding contribution to the RNLI.

Thelma Lomax, a fundraiser and volunteer who for 30 years has run Women’s Aid and its associated Refuge which she founded, as well as being actively involved in many other charities, has been awarded the MBE for her outstanding contribution and service to Manx charities.

Christine Carter, a dedicated volunteer chairman and secretary, has been awarded a BEM for her services to the Laxey and Lonan Brance of the Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association.

Harry Owens, the island’s bee inspector, has played a pivotal role in keeping the island’s bee population free from mites and beetles as well as volunteering in Africa. He is awarded the BEM for outstanding services to beekeeping.