Northamptonshire businessman is given knighthood

Mr Ellwood was made a CBE in 2001 and is currently chairman of Rexam

A businessman from Northamptonshire has been given a knighthood in the New Year Honours list for services to Business and to the Public Sector.

Peter Ellwood, CBE, was group chief executive of the banking group Lloyds TSB and then became chairman of multinational company ICI.

He led two government task forces under Tony Blair into diversity in the workplace and work/life balance.

Mr Ellwood said: "I am very thrilled. It's come completely out of the blue."

He is currently chairman of the global packaging company Rexam.

Other people from Northamptonshire honoured in the New Year list include Dr Sheila Shribman, national clinical director for Children, Young People and Maternity who is appointed a CBE.

Alexandra Bell from Kettering has received an MBE for services to people with learning disabilities in Northamptonshire.