SARAH Jane Banks, higher executive officer at the Ministry of Defence, becomes a Member of the British Empire in the New Year Honours for services to the MoD Disability Network.

Mrs Banks, who lives in Westbury, is chairman of the Civilian Defence Disability Network and encourages everyone to become a leader, regardless of their grade or position.

She has not let her cerebral palsy get in the way of her learning. In an article published on the MoD’s website earlier this month, Mrs Banks said: “It has been a privilege to work with disabled colleagues and hear their experiences, and, when necessary, to intervene and successfully address any problems they might experience in the workplace.

“This can involve influencing others and offering constructive challenge, so requires strong leadership skills.”