Community leaders and fundraisers among Queen’s birthday honours

Jewish community leaders and fundraisers were among those honoured in the Queen’s birthday honours this week.

Following his work heading David Cameron’s Holocaust Commission, Jewish Leadership Council chairman Mick Davis was knighted, which Holocaust educators said was “richly deserved”. 

Responding, Davis said: “My contribution pales into insignificance when I think of the very brave and resourceful survivors who every day relive that horror so that this and future generations will understand and act to prevent it from happening again.”

Among the lesser known names were three women dedicated to charity. Flora Frank, who helps Norwood and Emunah through her fundraising efforts, was joined by Lorraine Warren on the list, who was recognised for charitable services to women and children in Israel, and by Rebecca Masri, 32, a relatively young recipient.

Frank, who was awarded an MBE for services to the Jewish community and to charity in Edgware, said: “I feel very humble as there are so many more deserving people than me. I live in such a wonderful community that has so many inspiring causes. It’s a privilege to help.”

Amidst the 1,163 people highlighted for their achievements were familiar names in the London Jewish community, such as Facebook’s European director Lady Mendelsohn, who is often touted as one of the most influential women in business.

One of the oldest recipients was the 101-year old Iraqi-born entrepreneur Naim Dangoor, the son of the former Chief Rabbi of Iraq, who was knighted for his “extraordinarily generous philanthropy”. Dangoor, who came to the UK as a refugee, paid tribute to “this wonderful country” where “immigrants can restart their lives”.

In the list of those honoured by Her Majesty was former Lord Chief Justice Lord Woolf, who was recognised for his services promoting the rule of law, human rights, prison reform and inter-faith dialogue.

There were some famous names, such as TV presenter Loyd Grossman, and well-known local personalities, such as Cllr Peter Golds, recognised for his services to local government, and Peter Kessler, founder of cross-communal Jewish free school Eden Primary in Muswell Hill.