Leeds-born academic follows in father's footsteps with New Year's OBE honour for philanthropy research

Dr Beth Breeze, 50, co-founded the Centre on Philanthropy at the University of Kent which she has now led for ten years.

Alongside colleagues, Beth conducts research and offers evidence-based education and training for people who work, or want to work, in charities.

Beth created the UK’s first Masters degree in Philanthropic Studies, taught by distance learning to fit around jobs and family life.

She has now been awarded an OBE for services to Philanthropic Research and Fundraising.

Beth has become the second person in her family to be honoured after her father John Egan - former head gardener at Woodhouse Moor park - was given a 2009 honours list MBE for services to the community.

Speaking to the YEP, Beth said: "It is important to tackle misconceptions about why people give because charities cannot run on goodwill alone, they need funding to be able to do their work.

"I am so grateful to be able to do such interesting and useful work, and I deeply appreciate the support I’ve received from the University of Kent throughout my doctoral studies and academic career.

"It is incredibly enjoyable and rewarding work, for which I honestly did not ever expect to receive this kind of recognition.

"I look forward to carry on being part of the charity sector, which improves the lives of people and communities across the UK, and advancing the new academic field of Philanthropic Studies."

Beth grew up in Leeds and went to primary school in the city before attending Notre Dame college.