Honours for Cllr Peter John and architects Allies and Morrison

Barrister Cllr Peter John has been leader of Southwark Council for nearly six years and has been at the helm of the borough's Labour group for more than a decade.

He also has pan-London roles as a member of the London Councils executive and the London Enterprise Panel.

"It is hard to put into words how honoured and humbled I feel to be included in this year's New Year Honours," said Cllr Peter John.

"I often tell people that Southwark is the best borough in the best city in the world, and I am incredibly proud to serve this great community.

"Local government isn't always recognised for all the good work it does, but being a council leader is a hugely rewarding job, and I hope that people see today's announcement as recognition for our borough as well."

Cllr John is not the first Southwark leader to be recognised with an honour – his Lib Dem predecessor Nick Stanton also received the OBE in 2009.

OBEs have also been awarded to Bob Allies and Graham Morrison, founders of Southwark Street-based architecture practice Allies and Morrison.

The firm's recent local projects include the fitting out of the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse at Shakespeare's Globe and plans for the redevelopment of Elephant & Castle Shopping Centre.

The honours list published on Wednesday night also included an MBE for Adrian Koe in recognition of his 50 year involvement with Bermondsey's Downside Fisher Youth Club.