Former Boris Johnson Aide Honored for Public Service

Martin Reynolds, dubbed 'Party Marty', awarded Order of the Bath at Windsor Castle

Martin Reynolds, former principal private secretary to former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, has been made a companion of the Order of the Bath, an honor received at a ceremony led by Princess Anne at Windsor Castle.

Known as 'Party Marty' for arranging a bring-your-own-booze gathering at Downing Street during COVID-19 lockdown in May 2020, Reynolds was included in Johnson's resignation honors list announced in June 2023.

The gathering, which breached lockdown rules, led to fines for several attendees.

Reynolds apologized 'unreservedly' for his actions at the UK COVID-19 inquiry in October 2023, expressing deep regret for his role in organizing the event and sending the email invitation.

However, the award has faced criticism.

The COVID-19 Bereaved Families for Justice campaign group deemed the honor an insult to those who died during the pandemic.

Other figures receiving honors included Conservative deputy prime ministers Thérèse Coffey and Oliver Dowden, named in Rishi Sunak's list for political and public service.