The vast majority of people like the honours system. It was revamped a few years ago as it was getting a bit stale.

The principle of not looking for it and knowing that your worth has been through a process of nomination, consideration and short listing is a simple, no strings attached acknowledgment of good selfless deeds , public service or tireless serving your community.

There are high profile awards and whilst these attract debate, they enhance the association when a carer stands in line next to a famous person to collect their gong.

I tend to be bemused however by the hierarchical aspects and to be honest, that needs further attention. I am also always ready to slowly shake my head at the chippy spartists, trying to make you feel ashamed if something nice happening to you.

The most republican thinking of people still like the recognition. Our NUM branch secretary back in the late '70s was proud of his BEM. The stick he got from angry armchair socialists was disgusting to witness.

Fuck 'em. I am one of hundreds of thousands living with a gong, and my only regret is that my parents weren't alive to accompany me to Buckingham Palace. That said, mine was for services to healthcare and I cannot even dream of comparing myself with some of the unsung heros at the sharp end. Sadly, I deal mainly with the ones who let people down.

Eliza 's gong and that of her family fellow gongs show that someone somewhere wanted them to get recognition for their contribution to the arts and a sceptical thorough committee in government agreed.

Well done Eliza.