Youth Sport Trust CEO Ali Oliver has been awarded an MBE for services to sport while Head of Sport Ellen Falkner has been awarded an MBE for services to lawn bowls in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours list.

Responding to her award, Ali said:

“I am truly honoured and humbled to be recognised in this way. It has been an utter privilege to play a part in the journey of the Youth Sport Trust; a very special charity with a mission close to my heart.

“I don’t believe there is anything more important, or fulfilling, than helping to build brighter futures for young people, and there is no doubt in my mind that play and sport are essential ingredients to a happy and healthy childhood. 

“I would therefore like to dedicate this honour to the staff and wider family of the Youth Sport Trust and thank them for their incredible passion and commitment to improving young people’s lives.

"I am also so proud and pleased for Ellen who has dedicated her life to playing her sport and ensuring others get to enjoy it too."

Responding to her award, Ellen said:

"I’m thrilled and delighted; it’s a huge honour and completely unexpected. 

"I am both thankful and grateful for the important part that bowls has played in my life, the opportunities it has given me to test myself at the highest level, travel the world and make friends for life. I treasure the friendships, special moments and precious memories made, of which I hope there will be many more. 

"My own experience in sport has driven my passion in my role as Head of Sport at the Youth Sport Trust, to give every child the opportunity to find their love of sport. In world we currently find ourselves living in, its now more important than ever that all children can experience the joy of moving, the happiness from feeling a sense of belonging and develop skills that can help them to thrive in life."