A former Buckinghamshire County Council chairman received an MBE in the New Year Honours.

Kenneth Ross, of High Wycombe, former Conservative group leader, received his MBE for “public and voluntary services in High Wycombe”.

Speaking on his honour, Mr Ross said: “Of course I am very pleased. It did come as a surprise.

“I'm glad to know that some of the roles and activities I have taken on have been thought to be worthy of the honour.

“I have enjoyed my seven years as chairman of Bucks County Council from 1994 to 2001.”

Mr Ross said he also valued his time as county president of the Royal British Legion, as well as his time as president of Age Concern Bucks.

The former politician said it was his time as chair of the Bucks Data Link Partnership that he is particularly proud of.