I WAS delighted to see that the two remaining original members of Status Quo – Rick Parfitt and Francis Rossi – have been awarded OBEs (Echo, Dec 31).

They have been performing for well over 40 years and have donated millions of pounds to various charities so they thoroughly deserve their accolades in the New Year Honours.

However, I think some gongs are just handed out willy-nilly, particularly when I see the likes of Jenson Button – who at just 29 was unheard of until he became 2009 Formula One world champion – pick up an MBE.

Also, Blackburn Rovers footballer Jason Roberts has done nothing special to warrant an MBE except kick a round object around now and again.

The above two should feel embarrassed about being nominated for their MBEs because they have done very little in a short space of time except pick up millions of pounds for doing something they enjoy.

I would rather a doctor, surgeon, nurse or a care worker receive a gong for services rendered for a very small fraction of the money these two receive.

Nothing surprises me any more in this country.

Brian Corrigan, Tow Law, County Durham.