Falconer Roger Upton, from Marlborough, has been appointed an MBE for services to the cultural heritage of falconry.

The 76-year-old has been a falconer for 50 years and is the author of Arab Falconry, a unique insight into the tribesmen of Arabia who use falcons and hawks to hunt quarry including the houbara bustard, stone curlew, and desert hare.

After the announcement of his award, Mr Upton said: “It was quite a shock and an honour. It’s not the kind of thing that happens every day of the week. When I found out, I rushed off and told my wife and children, to see what they thought, and they were very pleased.

“Most people are very kind and say that it is well deserved.”

Peter Lemon, president and chairman of the Wilton Windmill Society, has been awarded a British Empire Medal for services to the communities in Grafton and Wilton.

Mr Lemon, who lives at Manor Farm in Wilton, has been involved with the windmill – the only working example in the South West – all his life. His contribution to the creation of Coronation Hall in East Grafton which opened in 2011 is also recognised.

He said: “It’s all very exciting and it wasn’t expected all so it took the wind out of my sails. I’ve had so many people call and text and email and send letters, it’s just been amazing that so many people have got in contact to congratulate me.”