A philanthropist who has given hundreds of thousands of pounds to help good causes in the local area has been recognised for his achievements.

John Dorrington Apthorp, 78, has been awarded a CBE by the Queen in the New Years Honours List.

The resident of Newlands Road in Radlett received the honour in recognition of the grants he has given to small local charities through the John Apthorp Charity and the Milly Apthorp Charitable Trust.

Mr Apthorp, who retired eight years ago, was chairman of Majestic Wines for 20 years and founded the frozen food chain Bejam, which he later sold to Iceland for £238 million.

Over the years he has donated money to good causes ranging from Radlett Scouts, Radlett Art Society, the tennis club and local hospices.

Mr Apthorp said: "It is a great honour to be recognised in this way. I have been very successful in the city and have used the funds to give something back to the community.

"I have lived in Newlands Avenue for 50 years and have concentrated on helping small charities in the local area. I have given lump sums to struggling charities and grants to help new organisations of the ground."

Mr Apthorp was previously awarded an OBE for his charity work and was given the Freedom of the Borough of Barnet in 2008.

He said: "It is important that businessmen like myself and other successful people give money to help those less fortunate through these tough times."