BOARD members of Durham-based NOF Energy, the business development organisation for the oil, gas, nuclear and offshore wind sectors, have been recognised in the Queen’s New Year Honours.

NOF Energy’s director of business development and deputy chief executive, Joanne Leng, has been appointed an MBE for services to the oil and gas industry.

Gill Southern, who is also a director of Wessington Cryogenics, based in Houghton-le-Spring, Wearside, has been appointed an MBE for services to business in the North-East of England.

Ms Leng works closely with NOF Energy’s member companies and has been instrumental in leading the team that has helped members secure more than £140m of business in recent years.

Ms Southern joined Wessington Cryogenics, which was established by her family in 1984, in an advisory position in 2005.

After working alongside the management team, she became a director in 2008.