A Rutland businessman who is deputy chairman of the Dunelm retail chain has been knighted for philanthropy.

William Adderley, who lives at Hambleton, has gained the honour in the Queen's Birthday Honour's List, published today.

A citation said: "William Adderley has made a significant, sustained, contribution to social mobility in the most disadvantaged areas of the UK.

"He stands out from other philanthropists not only because of the scale of his generosity, but also because of the way he deploys his expertise to ensure that his giving has the maximum impact.

"He set up the Stoneygate Trust 10 years ago, which aims to donate £5m a year. He has helped to improve the care for the terminally ill by donating £2m

to Loros, the Leicestershire Hospice.

"He has invested in Leicester University's Exercise Project and the Nottingham University Children's Brain Tumour research fund. His philanthropy has funded 170 live projects and 22 Fellowships for scientists in a very broad range of fields.

"He has sponsored 45 students to attend 5 universities through The Stoneygate Trust. He contributed magnificently to the fund which enabled Westminster Abbey to commission and complete the creation of The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries.

The citation added: "Lastly, alongside his philanthropic donations, he is the Deputy Chairman of the Dunelm Group."

Other stories to follow but the full list of recipients can be found here.