Rachel Riley was amongst the several famous faces that were recognised for their work at the New Year Honour’s List on Friday, with the Countdown star receiving an MBE for her contribution to fighting antisemitism.

The mathematician, whose mother is Jewish, has spent years campaigning against antisemitic racism, as well as online abuse.

The presenter took to Instagram to share the news of her MBE, captioning the post: “Incredibly proud to have just been awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year’s Honours for services to Holocaust education.”

“Grateful to everyone who has sent well wishes and support over the years. This is very much shared with so many people who also dedicate their time and energy to fighting anti-Jewish racism. I promise to keep working to deserve the honour.”

“PS I love this picture from a 2019 @holocaustuk event, with Sir Ben Helfgott, you can read about this life story on the HET website, he’s amazing,” she concluded.

Friends and followers rushed to the comments to share their support for the 36-year-old. Vanessa Feltz wrote: “Mazeltov! Brilliantly done and so richly deserved. Former Strictly judge Arlene Phillips added: “Brilliant Rachel. Congratulations. Well deserved and thank you for speaking out.”

Other celebrities that were recognised for their work in King Charles’ first Honours List included guitarist Brian May, who received a knighthood, actor Stephen Graham, and four England women’s football players, Lucy Bronze, Leah Williamson, Ellen White and Beth Mead.