Women still outnumbered as 3,155 people get king’s birthday honour

This year’s traditional honours list ahead of the monarch’s birthday contains 3,155 names, the state information service RVD said.

This is a slight increase on 2013. Men still outnumber the women recognised for their service to the Netherlands by almost three to one.

The oldest person to be given an award was 93-year-old Mrs De Jong-van Oosten from Capelle aan den IJssel who was recognised for organising outings and activities in the housing complex where she lives.

Noord-Brabant

The youngest recipient was 31-year-old Maurice van Hengst who does voluntary work with children.

The province of Noord-Brabant claimed the most newly decorated inhabitants, with 620. Flevoland, by contrast, had just 51, Nos television reports.

Among the celebrity award winners are dancer Penney de Jager, who provided the entertainment during 1970s music chart show TopPop and still gives dance classes.

Performer and writer Paul Haenen, football coach Sef Vergoossen, who now works with people with disabilities, and former skating champion Eddy Verheijen are also honoured.

In total, 3,533 names were recommended for honours. Nominations are made via local mayors.

Check out the full list

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