NATIONAL HONOURS

I think I am in favour of a national honours scheme for those who deserve them.  The lollipop man/woman who braves all weathers to help kids cross roads safely, the person who has worked endlessly for many years raising money for charities etc...

BUT, I am not so supportive when it comes to giving knighthoods and honours to sports and film personalities.  There is no doubt that Steve Redgrave, Bradley Wiggins etc have achieved some great results in their chosen sport BUT that is what they do as their day job!  They get paid to do it ... they get rewarded for good results with "prize money", OH YES and the post win opportunities and benefits of sponsorship, endorsement and merchandising are huge.  OK I hear you say but what about the years of training and dedication.....well what about the gaining of experience, the sacrifices and the the taking of professional exams that  "most people" undertake.  Their achievements (generally) are not recognised. 

When did you last here of a customer advisor in a bank who has worked there for 25 years and given excellent service, worked long and extra hours, taken all sorts of abuse from customers and worked towards gaining the necessary qualifications - being made a dame or Knight of the Realm....no me neither.

IF WE MUST HAVE AN HONOURS SYSTEM LETS MAKE IT FOR THE PEOPLE WHO GO ABOVE AND BEYOND WHAT IS EXPECTED OF THEM AND NOT JUST REWARD OVERPAID PERSONALITIES FOR DOING THEIR JOB.