A former Computer Weekly journalist, Rebecca Thomson, has been awarded an OBE in the King’s New Year honours list for 2025 for her early work on the Post Office scandal. Computer Weekly recently won the Campaign of the Year prize at the British Journalism Awards for their 15-year reporting on the scandal.
The story gained widespread attention after the ITV drama Mr Bates vs The Post Office aired last year, leading to government action to quash convictions and introduce compensation schemes. Thomson’s initial investigation into Horizon in 2009 paved the way for justice for subpostmasters wrongly prosecuted.
Thomson expressed surprise and gratitude for the recognition, highlighting the importance of continuing support for the affected postmasters. Other journalists recognized in the New Year Honours include Peter Taylor, Jackie Bird, Eric Thirer, and Beatrice Wilson for their contributions to journalism and broadcasting.
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