County councillor collects CBE (From Watford Observer)

Leader of Hertfordshire County Council Robert Gordon picks up CBE

12:43pm Tuesday 23rd October 2012 in News By Mike Wright, Chief Reporter

The leader of Hertfordshire County Council has collected a CBE for his services to local government.

Robert Gordon, who used to represent the Nascot area of Watford at county hall, was awarded the honour by the Queen at Buckingham Palace on Friday.

The Conservative was appointed a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in the Queen's Birthday Honours list announced in June.

He was first elected to Hertfordshire County Council in 1989 and held cabinet posts for of Education, Children’s Services and Resources and Performance before becoming the council’s leader in 2007.

He also served two terms on Watford Borough Council and was chairman from 2004 to 2005.

After receiving the award Councillor Gordon said: "The Investiture was an impressive and moving ceremony held in the Ballroom at Buckingham Place, with Yeomen of the Guard, Gurkha Orderly Officers and Officers of the Royal Household all adding to the sense of occasion.

"While politicians often receive more brickbats than thanks, there can be no more singular compliment than receiving an honour from the Queen in her Diamond Jubilee year."