Peter Gilham has been recognised in the New Year’s Honours list with a British Empire Medal for services to Association Football and to the community in the London Borough of Hounslow.

While Peter has served the club in a number of roles over the years, it is primarily his voluntary role as matchday announcer and his work in the local community that have been recognised by this honour.

Peter joins an elite list of medallists of the Order of the British Empire as part of the first New Year Honours list to be signed off by King Charles III. 

Cliff Crown, chair of Brentford FC, said: “We are thrilled to hear that Peter has been recognised for his services to football and to the local community.

“He has announced at more than 1,500 Brentford games and is the longest-serving matchday announcer in the United Kingdom.

“That dedication has rightfully earned him the name Mr Brentford from our fans. Peter's the voice of our club and we are so proud that he has won this award - our heartfelt congratulations go to him.

“In addition, his work with the Brentford Lifeline Society and charities such as CRY and Hounslow Community FoodBox has helped so many local people, driving awareness and fundraising for such important causes.”

Former Brentford player Chris Kamara was also recognised in the New Year’s Honours, receiving an MBE for services to football, anti-racism and charity.

Kamara was the first black player to represent Brentford in the Football League and made his debut for the Bees in October 1981.

He played 190 games for Brentford before leaving in the summer of 1985 and went on to have further success as a player – featuring for Leeds United, Luton Town and Sheffield United in the top flight – and as a manager. He is now probably best known for his media career with Sky Sports.

The former leader of Hounslow Council, Steve Curran is another friend of the club who has received an MBE in this year’s New Year’s Honours list.

Curran was given his award for services to Local Government and to the community in Hounslow. Steve played a pivotal role in the development of the Gtech Community Stadium supporting our planning applications to secure our future following our move from Griffin Park. 

Cliff Crown added: “I would also like to congratulate Chris Kamara and Steve Curran for their honours. 

“Chris is a hugely popular figure in the game and his work speaking out against racism is particularly important for football and society. 

“We will also be eternally grateful to Steve for the support he provided the club throughout his tenure as leader of the Hounslow Council.

“We are delighted for both of them to receive such deserving awards and wish Chris and Steve all the best for 2023 and look forward to seeing them back for a game soon.”