Bill Midgley

Margaret O'Callaghan

Two people with close links to Your Homes Newcastle, the three star organisation that manages Newcastle's 31,000 council homes, received honours in the New Years Honours list.

Former YHN chairman Bill Midgley received an OBE for services to business and the community in Tyne and Wear. Bill was chair of YHN from its beginnings in 2004 before leaving last year to be replaced by current chairman Steve Murphy.

And Margaret O'Callaghan - current vice chairman and YHN tenant - received an MBE for services to the community in Newcastle.

YHN is the only social landlord in the North East to have achieved a three star excellent rating from the Government's Audit Commission.