Four people from Renfrewshire have been recognised in the New Year Honours List 2026 for their work across education, health, music, fundraising and youth services.
The honours system recognises people who have made achievements in public life or committed themselves to serving and helping communities across the UK.
Paisley’s Carol Ann Copstick has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to education. She is Head of Inspection at HM Inspectorate, Education Scotland, with the honour recognising her contribution to maintaining and improving standards within the education system.
Also receiving an OBE is Jeanette Margaret Smart, from Paisley. She was formerly a Development Officer with the Food for Thought Education Fund at Education Scotland and has been recognised for services to food and health education, supporting learning around nutrition, wellbeing and healthy lifestyles.
Johnstone resident Alan Andrew Craig has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). He is the founder and musical director of the Springfield Cambridge Festival Chorus and Orchestra, with the honour recognising his services to fundraising for children’s hospices through music and community-led events.
Completing the Renfrewshire list is Elaine Balfour, from Paisley, who has received a British Empire Medal (BEM). Formerly a leader with the 62nd Glasgow Girls’ Brigade, she has been recognised for services to the community in Glasgow, particularly her long-standing work with young people.
What’s the difference between an MBE, OBE and CBE?
The New Year Honours List is published annually and highlights people from all backgrounds whose work has made a lasting impact locally, nationally or within their communities.
When the King’s Honours List is published, titles like MBE, OBE and CBE often appear after people’s names — but what do they actually mean?
All three are awards within the Order of the British Empire, given to recognise people who have made a positive impact through their work or service. The key difference is the level of contribution being recognised.
An MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) is usually awarded for outstanding service at a local or community level. This often includes volunteers, charity workers, local campaigners or people who have gone above and beyond in their job over many years.
An OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) sits one level above an MBE. It is typically given to people who have made a major impact in their profession or region, or whose work has had wider recognition beyond their local area.
A CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) is the highest of the three. It is awarded to people who have made a national or international impact, often leaders in their field such as senior figures in business, the arts, science, sport or public service.
In simple terms:
- MBE recognises strong local contribution
- OBE reflects significant regional or professional influence
- CBE marks national or international achievement
All are highly respected honours, announced twice a year at New Year and on the King’s official birthday.