SALISBURY is celebrating after a remarkable group of people were recognised in the King’s New Year Honours for their national impact on social justice, health, defence and community life.

Leading the honours is Zelda Perkins, who has been appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to social justice.

The Salisbury-based founder of Can’t Buy My Silence, is known for breaking her non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with disgraced Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein.

Zelda has played a pivotal role in challenging the misuse of NDAs and amplifying the voices of those affected by abuse and wrongdoing.

Her work has influenced public debate and policy discussions across the UK and beyond.

Several city residents have been made Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for their contributions to public health.

Dr Bassam Hallis, deputy director for vaccine development, evaluation and preparedness at the UK Health Security Agency, is recognised for services to vaccine development, pandemic preparedness and national resilience – work that proved vital during and after the pandemic.

Also awarded an OBE is Alison Morton, chief executive of the Institute of Health Visiting, for services to health visiting.

Her leadership has helped strengthen support for families, babies and young children across the country.

The Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) list includes Nichola Dugmore, a unit welfare officer with the Defence Serious Crime Command, honoured for her dedicated support of service police personnel.

While Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) Rory Steevenson, 71, is recognised for services to spinal injury research – work that has improved outcomes and quality of life for patients.

In September 2012, he was selected to lead the INSPIRE Foundation, based at Salisbury District Hospital, and grew INSPIRE’s research programme from £37,000 to more than £1.6 million.

He retired in April 2023, continuing to help the charity.

Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) Rory Steevenson.

At community level, Lorna Anne Janse van Vuuren has been awarded the Medal of the Order of the British Empire (BEM) for services to the community in Upper Woodford.

Her honour highlights the lasting impact of grassroots commitment and voluntary service close to home.

Together, the honours reflect the breadth of contribution coming from Salisbury – from global health security and military welfare to social justice campaigning and village life – and underline the city’s quiet but powerful influence far beyond Wiltshire.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “This year’s Honours list celebrates the very best of Britain – people who put the common good ahead of themselves to strengthen communities and change lives.

“Their quiet dedication speaks to the decent, compassionate country we are proud to be. On behalf of the whole nation, thank you – and congratulations to everyone recognised today.”