Hertsmere MP Oliver Dowden has been awarded a CBE for public service in the Dissolution Honours 2015.

The former Prime Minister's deputy chief said he was "thrilled" and "honoured" to be recognised for the work he has done.

He said: "I am extremely honoured and humbled to receive this award. I am privileged to have had the opportunity to serve the Prime Minister, and now to serve the residents of Hertsmere as a Member of Parliament."

Mr Dowden, who grew up in Bricket Wood and went to Parmiter's School, won the Hertsmere seat with 29,696 votes in the General Elections earlier this year.

He added: "Working with the Prime Minister has given me a vast amount of national experience - particularly in some of the important areas in public service such as welfare reform and criminal justice.

"I now want to take this experience and serve the people of Hertsmere."

The father of two who now lives in St Albans said he now wants to continue working with residents as well as the campaign against inappropriate developments such as the Radlett rail freight.

Mr Dowden, who was elected to sit on the Constitutional Select Committee, added: "With only one week to go until parliament returns, we need to get on with debating and scrutinising as there are a few legislations that need to be considered."