Francis Mackay, chairman of contract caterer Compass, was awarded a knighthood in the Queen's birthday honours list, in recognition of services to the hospitality industry and to charity.

An OBE went to Loyd Grossman for his involvement in the Better Hospital Food programme, while TV chef, restaurateur and face of Sainsbury's Jamie Oliver, pictured, was given an MBE for his services to the hospitality industry.

Ben Gill, president of the NFU, became a Knights Bachelor for services to agriculture, conservation and the community.

Brian Bender, permanent secretary for Defra was awarded a KCB and David Gray, lately head of site, HRI East Malling and Wye received an OBE for scientific and technological services to the UK horticulture industry.