A range of distinguished individuals from Wigan have been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours. Among the recipients are Anna Dawe, principal of Wigan and Leigh College, Wyn Jones, director of Fosse Way Prison, Ella Toone, a football star, and fostering couple Jacqueline and Norman Lowe. Each has made significant contributions to their respective fields, earning national recognition for their efforts.
Honours for Educational Leadership
Anna Dawe has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her exceptional services to further education and community development. Since taking on the role of principal at Wigan and Leigh College, Dawe has led the institution through transformative growth. Under her leadership, the college has built a strong reputation for high-quality teaching and expanded technical and professional pathways.
The nomination highlighted her instrumental role in securing major investments for the college’s facilities, creating modern learning environments that cater to diverse student needs. Her strategic focus aligns educational provision with workforce requirements in critical sectors such as engineering, construction, health, and digital technology. This year marked a significant achievement for the college, being recognised as the North West’s construction skills centre of excellence by the Government.
Andrea Ferguson, chair of the college’s governing board, praised Dawe’s leadership, stating, “This is a richly deserved recognition of Anna’s exceptional leadership and her tireless commitment to students, staff and the wider community.” Dawe expressed her gratitude, stating, “I am deeply honoured to receive this award. It reflects the collective effort of an incredible team of staff, governors, students, and partners who share a belief in the power of education to change lives.”
Recognition for Public Service and Sports Excellence
Wyn Jones, director of the newly opened Fosse Way Prison in Leicestershire, also receives an OBE for his public service. The facility, which opened in 2023, is a high-tech category C prison managed by Serco, with a capacity for 1,715 inmates. Jones remarked, “I am delighted to have been made an OBE in the King’s New Year’s Honours. My team and I work hard in HMP Fosse Way to deal with offenders and rehabilitate them. This recognition is a genuine honour and has made this born-and-bred Wigan lad very proud.”
In sports, Ella Toone, a pivotal member of the England women’s football team, has been awarded an MBE following the team’s success at the UEFA Women’s Euros. Toone, a former pupil of Fred Longworth High School and Wigan and Leigh College, has gained acclaim for her contributions to the sport.
Additionally, fostering couple Jacqueline and Norman Lowe, who are based in Wigan but work under the aegis of St Helens Council, each receive British Empire Medals for their long service in foster care. Their dedication has significantly impacted the lives of many children and families in their local community.
Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester and a regular visitor to Wigan, has been made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), further highlighting the notable contributions of individuals connected to the area.
The New Year Honours list reflects the diverse talents and dedication of those serving their communities across various sectors. Each recipient’s achievements underscore the importance of leadership, service, and commitment to improving the lives of others.
