Well said Guest, Ed.

The honours system is hugely flawed. Too many gongs handed out to people for just doing their jobs rather than for something special or over and above the call of duty. This is especially true of many awards to politicians, career civil servants and local government officers among others.

However there are many who are recognised in the honours lists for doing something special and we should give credit where credit is due. Richard Thompson deserves his award as his contribution to the musical life of this country is highly significant, so congratulations to him.