Surrey’s most senior policeman has been recognised in the New Year’s honours list.

Surrey Police Chief Constable Mark Rowley has been awarded the Queen’s Police Medal in the New Year’s Honours list for his significant contribution to policing.

Mr Rowley, 46, has chalked up 23 years of service since joining Surrey Police, where he was appointed Assistant Chief Constable in November 2003.

He said: "I am delighted to receive recognition in this way and consider it an incredible honour to receive the Queen’s Police Medal.

"I am extremely proud of what the staff and officers of Surrey Police achieve every day in keeping the people of Surrey safe.

"This award is testament to everything that they do on a daily basis."

After being appointed Chief Constable in March 2008, he drove the Surrey Public First strategy, which empowered staff to make decisions considering the victim’s wishes rather than meeting national targets.

Elsewhere, Ashtead resident David Mitchell-Baker was awarded an OBE for more than 37 years of contribution to services in the community.

Mr Mitchell-Baker, 78, founded a number of resident support groups, most notably Ashtead Good Neighbours, aimed at helping elderly people with mobility difficulties.

The group, founded in 2006, helps about 300 elderly residents, employing over 100 volunteers.

Mr Mitchell-Baker described the award as an “honour”.

He said: “I was very humbled to receive the accolade”.

“A lot of people have put a lot of work into my submission.

“The award is not just about me, but all the people I have worked with over the years.”

The retired civil engineer, formerly of KBR in Leatherhead, is also chairman of Surrey Dementia Care Trust, founded Ashtead Learning Difficulties Action Group in 1997 and is chairman of Advocacy and Action.

Epsom woman Victoria Ranson was also awarded an OBE for her work in intelligence assessment.