Two leading Liberal Jews have been awarded MBEs in the 2012 New Years Honours List.

Jess Wood – the founder and director of Allsorts LGBT Youth Project based in Brighton – has been recognised for her services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and young people. She is a member of Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue and married to Rabbi Elli Tikvah Sarah.

Leslie Moss, a congregant at Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue, has been awarded an MBE for his fundraising efforts for Cancer Research UK over the last four decades. In 2006, Leslie established the annual Harrow Relay For Life – which has raised almost £400,000 – and was made an Honorary Fellow by Cancer Research UK in 2010 along with his wife Gillian.

Jess said: “I feel very honoured to receive such an award especially when I think of all the wonderful volunteers and workers in the community and voluntary sector in Brighton and Hove whose incredible achievements also deserve recognition.

“I know I am only one of many people out there fighting for a better and more just society. What pleases me most is that an MBE for any LGBT individual tells us that the state recognises that the LGBT communities matter and need specific services which the state values and honours.

“The letter you receive mentions the Prime Minister and the Queen – I think this shows that LGBT people really are included now in the heart of the British Establishment. Let’s hope one day, the state church finds itself able to follow liberal faith groups in the UK and acknowledge us too?”

Leslie added: “I have been raising money for Cancer Research UK for almost 40 years, since losing an acquaintance to a brain tumour when I was 21 – and as a consequence meeting and later marrying her best friend.

“I had absolutely no idea that I was being considered for the MBE and was shocked, but so excited, when I heard the news. I now can't wait for February 14 when I go to the Palace to get my medal!”

Jess and Leslie’s honours were reported by the Jewish Chronicle in this article - http://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/61430/make-mine-a-medal-please

For more details about Allsorts go to www.allsortsyouth.org.uk

For more information on Cancer Research UK go to www.cancerresearchuk.org