FORMER Thornbury and Yate MP Steve Webb has received a knighthood in the New Year's honours list.

Mr Webb, 51, who lives with his family in Olveston, receives the honour "for political and public service" following his long political service within the Liberal Democrats, which saw him serve as  MP for almost 18 years, first for Northavon and then for Thornbury and Yate.

He also served as Minister of State for Pensions in the coalition government from 2010 to 2015.

Since leaving office, Mr Webb has worked as policy and external communications at the financial services mutual Royal London.

He was also instrumental in helping injured Thornbury teen Lewis Evans raise vital funds to get home after a freak accident in Zante in October.

Having seen the campaign on social media, Mr Webb convinced the Post Office, the teen's insurance company, to offer a £10,000 donation after they had originally voided the policy.

More to follow...