A world-renowned composer and conductor from Huntingdon has been awarded a form of knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours.  

Dr John Rutter CBE, who leads the professional chamber choir Cambridge Singers, will receive the Knights Bachelor for his services to music.  

He is also known for larger choral works that are widely performed around the world and for composing and arranging Christmas carols.  

Dr Rutter said: “This is a huge honour. Not that many musical honours are given out, particularly in the area of choral music.  

“I’ve composed music throughout my career, but I never think about its impact.  

“And my work must’ve made an impact in some way because I’m amazed someone on the honours committee noticed it, or had it brought to their attention.” 

The King’s Birthday Honours List 2024 was released at the weekend and includes heroes from Cambridgeshire awarded for their contributions to society, their communities or their areas of work.  

Among them was Keith Ridley, from St Neots, who is the National Chair of the Royal Naval Association. 

He was awarded the MBE for his voluntary service to veterans.  

Keith Ridley, the National Chair of the Royal Naval Association, has been awarded the MBE.Keith Ridley, the National Chair of the Royal Naval Association, has been awarded the MBE. (Image: Keith Ridley) Mr Ridley said receiving the honour was a "total surprise" and paid tribute to his wife.

"When I got the call from the Cabinet Office it was a total surprise. I was elated. I have never done anything for reward or recognition, I just wanted to help others. 

Mr Ridley joined the Royal Navy at the age of 16. He has held various positions in the Royal Naval Association and is President of the St Neots and District Royal British Legion. 

"My wife Maureen has always been behind me and I am very grateful for that."

MBEs also went to Steve Fleming, from Little Paxton, and his brother Peter who co-founded Kick4Life.  

The organisation is a charity, social enterprise and football club that works with children and young people in Lesotho, in Southern Africa.  

The MBE has been awarded to Steve Fleming, from Little Paxton, who is the co-founder of Kick4Life.The MBE has been awarded to Steve Fleming, from Little Paxton, who is the co-founder of Kick4Life. (Image: Supplied) A Kick4Life Centre in Lesotho, in Southern Africa.A Kick4Life Centre in Lesotho, in Southern Africa. (Image: Kick4Life) Meanwhile, Steven Johnson-Proctor, from St Neots, was awarded an OBE for his services to probation as director of the East of England Probation Service.  

Nick Dean, the Chief Constable of Cambridgeshire Constabulary, has also been awarded the King’s Police Medal for his distinguished service to the police.