The contribution of retailers to the economy and the country as a whole has been recognised in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list.

Marks & Spencer chief executive Stuart Rose was given a knighthood for services to retailing and corporate social responsibility.

Rose has overseen a remarkable turnaround at M&S since fighting off Sir Philip Green’s bid for the company in 2004. He has also led the way in corporate social responsibility in retailing, launching the groundbreaking Plan A environmental programme at M&S and becoming heavily involved with charity Business in the Community.

Pier founder Alison Richards, who died earlier this month following a long battle with cancer, was honoured with an OBE for her work with Unicef. She raised more than£1 million for the charity during her time at The Pier.

Fashion retail was represented strongly, with River Island chief executive Richard Bradbury and entrepreneur Maurice Bennett being honoured with CBEs, while Karen Millen and Jasper Conran were awarded OBEs.

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