College of Agriculture Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) says it is delighted that Pat McTeague, a food technology technician, has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the New Year’s Honour List.

Since 1974, Pat has worked at CAFRE’s Loughry Campus, Cookstown in an education/training role. His vast food processing expertise has greatly benefited CAFRE staff and students and contributed significantly to various sectors within the Northern Ireland’s Food Industry.

CAFRE colleagues, former graduates and food industry leaders have been keen to congratulate Pat on the honour of this award.

Pat is dedicated to developing skills within the food industry with particular interest in brewing and bakery. Developing learner competence is Pat's true vocation and he has always advocated that practical based learning is the key to creating industry-ready students.

“Receiving the BEM has come as a pleasant surprise,” says Pat modestly. “After checking that, it wasn’t a hoax, I was delighted at the news!”