Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson became an Order of the British Empire in a ceremony at Buckingham Palace on Friday, where he was given the honour by the Queen.
The 54-year-old has been appointed OBE for services to local government and the community.
When the news broke in June that he would be in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list, he told the BBC it came as a shock: “I am very surprised and humbled to receive this honour and regard it as much for the people of the city as for myself.”
The Labour politician was elected Mayor of Liverpool in May this year, gaining 57% of the votes.
He was previously the Leader of Liverpool City Council.