Remarkable Merton residents have been praised for their contribution to Britain’s newspapers, faith groups and government in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours.

Two people from Merton have been appointed CBEs, one an OBE and one an MBE in the list, which was announced today.

One CBE recipient is Dr Indarjit Singh, Merton Park resident and director of the Network of Sikh Organisations UK, who is recognised for services to interfaith and community relations.

The network, which has its headquarters in Wimbledon, represents Sikh temples and groups.

Dr Singh is also a regular presenter of Thought for the Day on the BBC’s Today programme and writes for newspapers and magazines.

He said: “I’m very pleased. It’s great to be recognised - particularly for something you are doing anyway.

"I am lucky enough to meet Her Majesty quite often - but this time it will be a little more special.”

Another CBE recipient is Charles Sinclair, 60, from Wimbledon, who retired as chief executive of the Daily Mail General Trust in October.

The Wimbledon resident ran the trust, which controls the national newspaper and more than 100 local titles, for 18 years.

Pauline Halliday, a Wimbledon resident, was awarded an OBE for services to local government in the City of London.

The Wimbledon resident is a long serving member of the authority that runs the square mile, and in 1999 she became the first female sheriff of the city.

Frances Allingham, a Raynes Park resident, was honoured with an MBE for her work as a clerk and committee assistant at the House of Commons.