Birthday Honours: Sussex broadcaster, nurse and campaigner honoured

Some 34 people from across Sussex were honoured in the list, including vice-chancellor of the University of Brighton Professor Debra Humphirs and founder of tradesperson website Checkatrade.com Kevin Byrne.

The list recognises the achievements and service of people from across the country and are the first to be awarded by King Charles III since becoming monarch in September last year.

Argus columnist and broadcaster receives OBE

Ivor Gaber was honoured with an OBE for services to media freedom internationally (Image: The Argus)

Professor Ivor Gaber, columnist for The Argus and professor at the University of Sussex, was recognised with an OBE for his role at Unesco, which promotes world peace and security through international co-operation in education, arts, sciences and culture.

As the UK’s representative, he began the process which led to the United Nations adopting a plan of action aimed at protecting journalists in danger from repressive governments and others.

He has also worked with journalists in more than 20 countries, mostly new or unstable democracies, to help build and sustain media freedom - covering nations in eastern Europe and sub-Saharan Africa.

During his broadcasting career, he produced packages for ITN and was in Brighton working as a BBC producer the night of the IRA bombing of The Grand hotel.

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Prof Gaber said:”I am enormously flattered to receive this award. Whenever I work in countries where media freedom is threatened or non-existent, I am struck by the immense courage and humility of the journalists who continue working, often in dangerous circumstances. I dedicate this award to them.”

Professor Sasha Roseneil, vice-chancellor of the University of Sussex, said: “I am delighted for Professor Gaber and extend my warm congratulations to him on behalf of the University of Sussex.

“The honour is testament to the significant contribution Ivor has made in the pursuit of media freedom and freedom of expression throughout his career.”

'I didn't want any other child to experience what we did'

Jo-Ann D’Costa-Manuel from Crawley received an OBE for her charitable work in recognition of her substantial and sustained commitment to assisting people with autism and hidden disabilities over the past nine years.

Inspired by a lack of support for her autistic son, she has worked to raise the profile of hidden disabilities, creating awareness campaigns and raising money.

Jo-Ann D'Costa-Manuel received an OBE for services to children and young people with autism

She said: “Our journey began with little support and being misunderstood every single time we stepped out of the door with our younger son who has autism.

“A horrific plane ride and a local shopping trip left permanent scars in our hearts.

“I didn’t want any other child, parent or family to experience what we did so I approached an airline to create a hidden disability package and a supermarket to create a shopping ‘quiet hour’.

“I didn’t ask to be paid for this as I knew that would mean lots of red tape and wasted time. I wanted action and I was confident I could start a chain reaction if I just pushed that first huge domino.

“From undertaking national and global projects to creating social media content, which was viewed by millions, I always knew I could change our negative journey into a positive one and create impactful change for others.

“This is an important legacy for my children and family. I never expected this.”

Long-serving Shoreham nurse receives OBE

Zoe Fry has been awarded an OBE for services to social care and to nursing (Image: The Argus)

Nurse Zoe Fry from Shoreham was also awarded an OBE for her long service and ongoing dedication to adult social care.

After starting her work at care homes at the age of 13, she purchased the Valerie Manor nursing home in Steyning in 2008 which was one of the first in Sussex to receive an outstanding rating from the Care Quality Commission.

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Zoe said: “I am incredibly proud that so many people believe that my contribution to the sector has been enough to make me deserving of an OBE medal.

“Since starting my career as a nurse, I have been dedicated to helping people across the UK and doing everything I can to contribute to a sector that supports creativity, innovative care and best practice for everyone accessing its services.

“It means so much to be able to provide a voice for the sector and accept this prestigious honour on behalf of so many amazing colleagues who make a difference to people’s lives every day.”