RAF Kinloss and Lossiemouth staff given honours

WO Miles worked on Nimrod, an aircraft retired from service in March

Personnel at closure-threatened RAF stations in Moray have been recognised in the New Year Honours.

Cpl Karen Edwards, who works in the gun bay at RAF Lossiemouth, has been made an MBE because of her "inspired contribution" to her squadron.

WO Chris Miles has also been made an MBE for his engineering role with Nimrod aircraft at RAF Kinloss.

Following a defence review, Kinloss is expected to close while the future of Lossiemouth is in doubt.

Cpl Edwards was described in her citation as a "superb ambassador for the station who deserves full recognition for her outstanding efforts".

WO Miles has been recognised for his "pivotal role" within the Nimrod Line Squadron - a ground engineering section at Kinloss - from 2005 until his posting to neighbouring Lossiemouth earlier in 2010.

Nimrods were retired from service in March this year.

Aberdeen South MP Anne Begg has been made a dame for her services to disabled people and support for equal opportunities.

The Aberdeen-born singer Annie Lennox has been recognised for her years of charity work

And singer Annie Lennox has become an OBE for her charity work.

The former Eurythmics singer said she was "genuinely honoured" and joked that she was getting her hat ready for a visit to Buckingham Palace.

Karate veteran Ronald Watt have also been appointed an OBE and John Rendall has received an MBE for services to the community in Hoy and Walls, on Orkney.

Gp Capt John Darce, from Elgin, has also been appointed an MBE.

A Queen's Fire Service Medal has been awarded to James Clark for his work with Grampian Fire and Rescue Service.

He was described as being widely regarded for his passion, pride and commitment to the fire service.