Former subpostmasters and key campaigners from the Post Office scandal are finally getting the recognition they deserve for their dedicated fight against the injustices they faced. Jo Hamilton, wrongfully convicted of false accounting in 2006, received an OBE from King Charles III in the New Year Honours List. She’s joined by fellow campaigners Lee Castleton, Seema Misra, and Christopher Head, who also fought tirelessly for justice.
Rebecca Thomson, the former Computer Weekly reporter who was instrumental in bringing the scandal to light in May 2009, has also been honored with an OBE. Hamilton’s name is now tied to a landmark court of appeals case from 2021, which overturned the wrongful convictions of 39 former subpostmasters, paving the way for many more to regain their good names. This case not only vindicated those wronged but also played a critical role in making the Post Office public inquiry a statutory process.
Jo Hamilton served as a subpostmaster in South Warnborough, Hampshire, from 2003 to 2005. In October 2003, she began experiencing mysterious accounting discrepancies that she couldn’t explain. Facing the threat of prison, she pled guilty to false accounting despite knowing she hadn’t done anything wrong. Hamilton was one of the brave seven featured by Computer Weekly when the scandal broke. To pay back what the Post Office claimed was missing, she had to remortgage her house. The local community rallied behind her, raising £9,000 to help.
Hamilton’s commitment to her cause is unwavering. As a founding member of the Justice for Subpostmasters Alliance, she took on a public role after the scandal became widely known through an ITV drama. Upon receiving her OBE, she stated that it’s an extraordinary honor, not just for her, but for all subpostmasters affected by the scandal. She remains focused on continuing her fight for justice, emphasizing that the struggle isn’t over until everyone receives fair compensation.
Sir Alan Bates, who was recognized with a knighthood for his significant contributions to the campaign, praised Hamilton’s dedication, particularly in supporting those who endured immense trauma. “Nothing is too much trouble for her,” said Neil Hudgell, a lawyer representing victims. He highlighted how she consistently offers support to other subpostmasters.
Peer James Arbuthnot, who campaigned alongside Hamilton as her MP, shared his thoughts on her recognition. He noted how she turned her devastating experience into a force for good, inspiring others to join in the fight.
Other honorees include Lee Castleton, who faced bankruptcy after challenging the Post Office over unexplained accounting issues, and Seema Misra, imprisoned while pregnant in 2010 due to a wrongful conviction. Both spoke about their pride in receiving OBEs and the ongoing need for justice. Misra noted the honor reflects acknowledgment of their struggles and will empower their fight for fair compensation.
Christopher Head, recognized as the youngest subpostmaster in the UK at 2006, also welcomed his OBE, reflecting on the importance of continuing their fight for justice.
Rebecca Thomson expressed gratitude for her OBE, acknowledging the collaborative effort at Computer Weekly that brought the subpostmasters’ stories to light. She hopes that financial compensation comes swiftly for them in 2025.
Forensic accountant Kay Linnell, who has played a crucial role in supporting the subpostmasters throughout their campaign, also received an OBE for her invaluable contributions.