Forest of Dean District Council congratulates local honourees recognised in King’s Birthday Honours List

Cllr Timothy Brian Gwilliam, a District Councillor at the Forest of Dean District Council, has received the MBE for services to the community in the Forest of Dean. Known for his passionate advocacy and years of service to the area, Cllr Tim Gwilliam has worked determinedly to represent and support residents across the district.

Cllr Tim Gwilliam said:

“I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this recognition. It continues to be a huge privilege to serve the Forest of Dean and to work alongside so many dedicated individuals and groups who care deeply about this unique and special place. This award is as much for them as it is for me. 

“Those community members who do so much every day to make their neighbours' lives better and who respond so positively to the challenges and opportunities, the suggestions and the ideas I may throw at them. This honour means so much to me, and I am truly grateful to both the Honours Committee and those who nominated me.” 

Caroline Young, Wellbeing and Benefits Advisor at Lydcare, has also been awarded an MBE for services to the community in the Forest of Dean. Through her work supporting individuals with access to wellbeing and benefits advice, Caroline has made a significant and lasting difference to people’s lives. 

“I was incredibly surprised, and honoured, to receive this award.” said Caroline. “Supporting people through Lydcare has been a privilege, and I share this recognition with my wonderful colleagues and the community we serve. I’m truly grateful.

"The support of my colleagues at Lydcare and the Forest of Dean District Council has helped me to do what I enjoy and I am immensely thankful to everyone for their support and assistance."

Leader of Forest of Dean District Council Cllr Adrian Birch also expressed pride in the honourees:

“On behalf of the Council, I want to extend our warmest congratulations to both Tim and Caroline. Their contributions to the Forest of Dean are immeasurable, and their recognition in the King’s Honours List is richly deserved.  

“They truly reflect the heart and spirit of our community, and I hope residents will join me in congratulating them both, as well as all those who have been nominated for such prestigious honours.

The King’s Honours celebrate exceptional service to communities and public life across the UK, and Forest of Dean District Council is delighted to see local individuals recognised for their dedication and impact. 

Full details for The King's Birthday Honours List 2025 can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-kings-birthday-honours-list-2025