Paralympian rider appointed CBE

Pearson won three golds in Beijing on his horse Gentleman

The BBC Midlands disabled sports personality of the the year 2008 has been appointed CBE in the New Year Honours list.

Lee Pearson, a nine-times paralympian equestrian gold medallist, from Leek, in Staffordshire has been unbeaten in three consecutive Games since 2000.

Staffordshire resident, principal Asha Khemka, from Burton-on-Trent, becomes an OBE for services to education.

Two members of Staffordshire Police were appointed MBE.

'Team work'

Mike Poulter, chairman of Staffordshire Police Authority since 2000 and a county councillor of 28 years, was recognised for his services to the community.

The three-times Labour parliamentary candidate, who also studied for a priesthood in Rome, said he "thoroughly enjoyed public service", in particular the vocational aspect to politics and policing.

Tamworth special constable Graham Smout was recognised for 35 years of voluntary service, training and mentoring more than 100 special constables in the force.

He said: "I am very honoured, but it really is for all the specials at Tamworth, as we very much work as a team."

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