Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford was honoured by Queen Elizabeth II on Friday following the 22-year-olds successful campaign to feed vulnerable children. Rashford was honoured along with hundreds of keyworkers who helped in the fight against the coronavirus.

The English international was one of the top-notch figures to feature on the guest list of the monarch’s birthday. The event was rescheduled from June and honoured frontline health workers and others who participated in Covid-19 effort. 

The 22-year-old had forced a government U-turn over its free school meals policy and had ensured that children in need receive meal vouchers throughout the summer months. He has also formed a child food poverty task force. 

Prime Minister Boris Johnson who was at the award, said, “the hard work and dedication of these local, often unsung heroes have helped carry us through. I congratulate them all.”

“This year’s honours recipients are a testament to the sort of country we are, caring, compassionate and resolute in the face of a global pandemic,” said Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Rashford, who has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), said he was “honoured and humbled” to receive the award.

Rashford said, “Let’s stand together in saying that no children in the UK should be going to bed hungry.”

 “As I have said many times before, no matter your feeling or opinion, not having access to food is never the child’s fault,” the Manchester United striker added.

Fitness expert Joe Wicks and Rapper Lady Leshurr were also honoured. While Wicks received the title MBE, Leshurr was awarded the  British Empire Medal.

Joe Wicks whose daily online exercise sessions drew millions of viewers across the globe, was elated to win the award.

Rapper Leshurr expressed her awe on winning the award and said, “I can’t believe that the queen of England has noticed and commended the queen of grime.”

The honours list also included 100-year-old Dabirul Islam Choudhury, was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) after he raised £420,000 ($545,000) for Covid-19 relief while fasting during Ramadan.