So, what’s the moral of the 2026 honours list? I think it’s this: you don’t have to be famous to get a gong. You just need to be incredibly weird, incredibly dedicated, or a baker who once starred in a soap opera. Or, you know, a snail brain scientist.
The King likes variety, apparently. And let’s be honest—it’s fun. It’s a little slice of national chaos that makes you think, “Yeah, that’s us.” We’re a nation of eccentric heroes, and we hand out medals for it. Could there be a better New Year tradition? I’d argue no. Unless you count the hangover.
So, go on. Check the list yourself. Maybe you’ll see a neighbor who got an MBE for “expertise in compost heap management.” I’m not joking—I think it’s actually on page 12. And if you’re feeling left out? Don’t worry. There’s always next year. Start rescuing a badger now. Or bake a pie. The King is watching.
