Dstl staff member receives New Year Honour

Dr Norman Govan, of the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), has been recognised in Her Majesty The Queen’s New Year Honours 2020.

Dr Govan, who has worked at Dstl and its predecessors for more than 20 years, has been made an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE). He receives his OBE for his many years of expertise in the decontamination of chemical weapons, including the development of methodologies and specialist skills to safely and effectively manage the hazards arising from these agents. His contribution was vital in the recovery process following the Salisbury and Amesbury incidents in 2018.

Dr Govan, who is a fellow – a technical expert – within the Chemical Biological and Radiological Division at Dstl said: “I am truly humbled by this award. I was immensely proud of what the recovery team achieved getting Salisbury and Amesbury back to normal. I had the privilege to work alongside some really incredible people during the operation and I am delighted to accept this on their behalf.”

Gary Aitkenhead, Chief Executive at Dstl added: “I offer my sincere congratulations to Dr Govan. It gives me great pride to see our people recognised in this prestigious way. The award is a deserved recognition of his dedication, professionalism and technical excellence.”