RSN Chair Roger Phillips Awarded OBE In New Year Honours

We are proud to share that Cllr Roger Phillips, Chair of the Rural Services Network, has been awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours List 2026 for services to the community of Herefordshire.

The honour recognises nearly three decades of public service to Herefordshire Council, where Cllr Phillips has served as a councillor since 1997 and previously as Leader of the Council from 2003 to 2011. A farmer based in Pembridge, Leominster, he has played a leading role in shaping the county’s economic development, transport infrastructure and public services, with a particular focus on rural communities.

During his time in local government, Cllr Phillips has led or championed a number of major projects, including the development of the Hereford Enterprise Zone, delivery of key transport infrastructure, relocation of Hereford Livestock Market, and investment in community facilities such as leisure, archive and fire service provision. He has also served for over 30 years as a county magistrate and currently chairs the Royal Three Counties Show.

In addition to his Herefordshire roles, Cllr Phillips sits on several national and regional bodies, including the County Councils Network, Local Government Association and fire and pension governance boards. As Chair of the Rural Services Network, he continues to support efforts to ensure rural, coastal and small-town communities are heard in national policy discussions.

The Rural Services Network congratulates Roger on this well-deserved national recognition for his long-standing commitment to public service and rural communities.