New badge for Honours recipients

The emblems will not be a replacement for the badge and ribbon, which the Queen will continue to present at Buckingham Palace investitures.

Officials said recipients will be able to show day-to-day they have been honoured for contributing to society.

There are said to around 120,000 people eligible to wear the badge of the Order of the British Empire, enclosed in a circle of ribbon, which will cost £15.

"Honours are there to recognise the extraordinary achievements of people across the country, in all walks of life," said Cabinet Secretary Sir Gus O'Donnell.

"These new emblems are a visible sign of a person's accomplishments, and I hope that many will choose to wear them with pride.

"I also believe that this is an important step in increasing overall awareness and understanding of the Honours system."

Toye, Kenning & Spencer Ltd, of Bedworth, Warwickshire, has been appointed as the sole supplier of the emblem.

The firm will take reservations from January 6, with delivery beginning after 15 March.