A FORMER Denbighshire county and St Asaph city councillor has featured in the 2023 New Year’s Honours list.

Dewi Owens of St Asaph was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for political and public services in North Wales.

This year's list, which is the first published since the Queen's death and the first to be signed off by her son, King Charles III, includes a total of 1,107 recipients.

The New Year's Honours list recognises the achievements and service of people across the UK celebrating those who have performed extraordinary feats in their field.

The awards are presented by or in the name of the reigning monarch, King Charles III, or his vice-regal representative.

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Vale of Clwyd MP, James Davies, was delighted that the former councillor, who committed years to political and public service in North Wales, featured in the New Year’s Honours list.

He said: “I am absolutely delighted that Dewi has been featured in this year’s list and that his hard work and commitment has been recognised at the highest level.

“I have known Dewi for many years and his MBE is very well-deserved.

“He has worked tirelessly over the years for the benefit of the local community. He served as a city councillor for St Asaph for over 20 years and as Denbighshire county councillor for 13 years.

“In fact, I was first elected as a Denbighshire County Councillor at the same time as Dewi - in 2004.

“Despite now being in his late 80s, he remains actively involved in local issues and politics.

“I look forward to congratulating Dewi in person and in the meantime hope he and his family enjoy celebrating this wonderful achievement.”