Tunnock’s tea cake creator Boyd Tunnock has been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

The 86-year-old received the knighthood for his services to business and charity. He was among 1,073 to feature in the 2019 line-up, which celebrates the outstanding achievements of people across the United Kingdom.

“When you get to my age, very few things surprise you, but this certainly did and I am deeply honoured and grateful to Her Majesty The Queen,” said Tunnock.

“Our primary purpose in life is to help others who are less fortunate than ourselves. Our country is full of very worthwhile causes that we can all make a contribution to in some way. Often just a little of your time is more valuable than money. This is a wonderful honour and I feel that I share it with my family and the Tunnock’s workforce.”

Tunnock debuted the popular teacake in 1956 after his father, Archie, gave him the task of creating a new product.

He developed the idea of using Italian meringue, which resulted in a biscuit base topped with hand-piped mallow and covered in milk chocolate.

Tunnock was later awarded an MBE in 1987 for the company’s increased sales to foreign countries and, in 2004, was presented with a CBE at Buckingham Palace for his contribution to charity.

“Everyone connected with the company is absolutely delighted that Mr Boyd Tunnock’s contribution to our country has been recognised in this way,” said a spokesman for the family-owned Scottish baker.

“Throughout his life, Boyd has taken the view that we are here to help others, particularly those less fortunate than ourselves and he puts that into practice every day. Boyd has always taken a keen interest in the welfare of his employees and that is reflected in the respect and affection towards him throughout the factory. He has consistently shared his success as a businessman and does not seek praise for his actions. This honour could not be given to a more deserving individual.”

The business, which was established by Thomas Tunnock in 1890, also produces caramel wafer biscuits, a caramel log, a wafer cream biscuit, and marshmallow coconut-covered Snowballs.

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