Bill Hiron, Chair of ALBUM and Managing Director of Stephensons of Essex, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours.
Mr Hiron, who has chaired the Association since 2018 and is a former President of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, was recognised for services to passenger transport.
“I’m surprised and humbled by this honour,” says Mr Hiron, who has been in the industry for nearly 40 years, including 23 at the helm at Stephensons. “This recognition would not have been possible without the support of many of my colleagues over the years.
“I am particularly thankful to the dedicated team at Stephensons of Essex and the wider ALBUM community for their unwavering commitment to supporting me alongside providing essential transport services.”
Denise Harrison, Head of Health and Safety at First Bus, also received an MBE.
Ms Harrison has been in the industry for 40 years, having started out as a catering assistant at Ashton-under-Lyne Bus Station and then become one of just six female bus drivers in a depot of more than 400.
“It’s absolutely crazy,” she says. “I was in shock, I just turned to my husband and said ‘I think I’ve been nominated for an MBE. I think we’re going to Buckingham Palace!’ It’s an honour to be recognised for spending my entire career working and caring about the bus industry. I’m proud of myself.
“For me, buses are about connecting communities. If I can inspire more people to love and use the bus, then that’s my aim. I’ve spent four decades in the bus industry and can see the value that bus services bring to local communities and the economy.
“First Bus has been kind to me over the years. They’ve allowed me the time to gain qualifications and have trusted me to be my authentic self to achieve my goals. I’ve had an absolutely amazing career – no regrets whatsoever!”
Sonya Byers, Chief Executive Officer of Women in Transport, has been awarded an OBE for services to diversity. Ms Byers is also Patron of Women on the Move Against Cancer (WOMAC) and Trustee of Parkrun Global.
In addition to marking her work on diversity and inclusion within transport, it notes her efforts in supporting cancer awareness and research and her significant role in promoting community health and wellbeing through Parkrun.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition,” says Ms Byers. “This award is testament to the incredible work of the teams at Women in Transport, WOMAC, and Parkrun Global. Together, we have made strides in promoting diversity and inclusion in transport, supporting vital cancer initiatives, and fostering healthier communities.
“I am grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey and look forward to continuing our work to create positive change.”
