Chelmsford MP Simon Burns has become the fourth serving Essex MP to be knighted.
The former health and transport minister has represented the area in the House of Commons since 1987, winning a 20,080-strong majority in last month’s poll.
Sir Simon, 62, said the knighthood for parliamentary and political service was “an extremely pleasant surprise”.
He added: “I am absolutely thrilled about it.
“What’s particularly good is to be recognised by your peer group – presumably they think I have done a reasonably good job.
“I am very honoured and flattered, and very excited about it.
“It has been a nightmare not telling anyone. I was terrified I would blurt it out in conversation to someone, but fortunately I have not.
“The ceremony itself will be brilliant, and is something I am looking forward to in presumably the next few months.”
Other knighted Essex MPs are Sir David Amess, Sir Alan Haselhurst and Sir Eric Pickles, while former Colchester MP Sir Bob Russell also received the honour.
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