BASILDON and Billericay MP John Baron has been awarded a CBE (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in the King's Birthday Honours List for his public and political service.  

Mr Baron said: "I am very touched and honoured to be recognised in this way.

"Being an MP is an immense privilege, and I have thoroughly enjoyed serving my constituency at Westminster for over 20 years." 

"However, the MP is only the most visible part of a hard-working team, so my enormous thanks go to all my staff members, past and present, who have contributed to our work since I was first elected.

"This honour is very much for them too as well as all those who have been supportive in the constituency, and it has been pleasing to see our hard work also recognised by the growing trust shown to my team and I by the public at successive General Elections." 

 "Finally, I also thank my own family for being so supportive. I would not have been granted this very special honour without their assistance and care."