Two Montserratians have been recognised in His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours List 2025 for their outstanding contributions to the local community and wider society.
Dr Graham Ryan, director of the Montserrat Volcano Observatory, was awarded the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his services to volcanology and geothermal physics in Montserrat.
And James ‘Scriber’ Daley, founder of Scriber’s Adventure Tours, was awarded a Member of Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to the natural world and to tourism in Montserrat.
The King’s New Year Honours List is an annual tradition recognising individuals for their exceptional contributions to public life, charity, and various fields of service.
This year’s overseas and international list was published on 30 December and included the names of more than 80 honours recipients.
The Governor’s Office in Montserrat congratulated both men on their achievements in a Facebook post.
“It is wonderful to see recognition for great work and commitment within and for Montserrat, congratulations to them both, Dr Graham Ryan OBE and Mr James Daley MBE,” it read.
Ryan’s work with the Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) dates back to 1996 when he was an intern.
Since then, his impressive global academic and research work have helped to develop understanding of Soufriere Hills Volcano and the surrounding area along with the island’s geothermal energy potential.
Meanwhile, Daley is Montserrat’s foremost natural world expert.
He has been hiking and protecting Montserrat’s forest trails for over 40 years, impressing visitors with his unparalleled knowledge of Montserrat’s flora, fauna and wildlife.
A Facebook post from the MVO said: “This recognition highlights their incredible commitment and service to Montserrat and its people. Well deserved accolades for two of Montserrat’s finest!”
