' I can't wait to tell the children'

A headteacher, a worker with disabled people and a firefighter were among the unsung heroes named on the Queen's New Year Honours List today.

Headteacher Lynn Slinger said she would dedicate her OBE to the children and staff she has worked with for the last 18 years.

The 54-year-old has led Forest Way Special School, in Coalville, from strength to strength for almost two decades.

When she joined the school, it was rated 'satisfactory' – but the last two Ofsted inspections have graded it 'outstanding'.

Mrs Slinger said: "I can't wait to tell the children about it.

"This is really not just for me, but for the parents, children and wonderful staff I have the pleasure of working with."

Mrs Slinger was nominated by the chairman of the school's board of governors, Tony Norwell.

He said: "She will play down her role, but really the kids adore her.

"She is there every morning to wave them into school and her office is always open.

"I don't know how she does it all, but she lives for her job and we really appreciate it."

Jason Moore-Read, who was born with no legs, said keeping his MBE secret from his family had been a nightmare.

He said: "I opened the letter as I walked in the door with my daughter – I just had to try not to smile too much because she's only eight, and I knew if she found out everybody would know."

Mr Moore-Read, who lives in Thurmaston, works as a manager for the Home Office Border Force, and has been commended for his role helping with limbless and disabled people both in and out of work.

At the request of the Limbless Association, the 42-year-old visits hospitals all over the country, helping people who are coming to terms with losing their limbs.

He also helps make life easier for disabled people who work for the Government.

"Over the years, I have helped people, and when you go on to hear that they have got on with their lives, got a job, had a family or are driving – that does put a spring in your step," Mr Moore-Read said.

"Going to visit people who have lost limbs, they are more positive than you would think. Like me, they are often able to pick something positive to focus on.

"My life has been good – if not better – than I could have wished for."

Bringing physics to life is what earned Professor Derek Raine, a physics lecturer at the University of Leicester, his nomination for an MBE.

The 65-year-old, from Bushby, said: "I feel absolutely overwhelmed.

"My children have been to the palace for their Duke of Edinburgh awards, and my wife for an MBE, so now it is finally my turn – I'm really looking forward to it."

County and borough councillor David Bill, 67, is to receive an MBE for services to local government.

The founding member of Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council has been a councillor since the authority was established in 1973. He has also held a seat on Leicestershire County Council and Leicestershire Police Authority for more than 25 years.

"It is all I know really," Coun Bill said.

"And while I can't remember why I got into it, I stick with it because I enjoy inspiring and encouraging people to be involved in the community where they live."

Bob Allen, chairman of the regimental Royal Tigers' Association, will pick up an MBE for his service to ex-servicemen and women in the county.

For her services to dentistry, Dr Susan Sanderson, of Oakham, Rutland, chairman of the executive board of the British Dental Association, will receive an OBE. Former triathlete Professor Sarah Springman, of Loughborough, who represented Great Britain from 1983 to 1993, is to receive an OBE for services to sport.

Assistant chief fire officer Howard Robinson, 52, is set to receive the Queen's Fire Service Medal for his 34 years of dedication to the service.

He spent more than two decades with the West Midlands Fire Service before moving to Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service seven years ago.