Queen recognises local people in Birthday Honours List

The Chief Executive of the Social Security Agency, Mr Bryan Davis, who was awarded the CBE in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours, said the honour is recognition, not just for himself but for the thousands of hardworking staff at the agency.

Mr Davis, who lives in Hillsborough, said he was genuinely surprised to find out he had been awarded the CBE. "It was totally unexpected. I was in shock for a while after I heard but I am really pleased and delighted about it."

Mr Davis concluded: "I know my wife Claire and daughter Grace are already looking forward to a day out at Buckingham Palace."

Assistant Chief Constable Drew Harris, who lives locally, has been awarded the OBE.

Mr Harris, who is married with four children, started his career as a Constable in 1983 serving in beat and patrol officer postings in Belfast, Newtownhamilton, Armagh and Craigavon. In 1996, he was promoted to Chief Inspector and in 2000, to Superintendent.

In his career he has held some of the most challenging and high profile command positions including Craigavon DCU Commander and head of Special Operations. As Assistant Chief Constable responsible for Criminal Justice Department, he was instrumental in the introduction of the new district Public Protection Units responsible for the investigation of child and domestic abuse and the management of violent and sexual offenders. He currently heads the Crime Operations.

Lisburn woman Pat Knowles said she was "delighted and humbled" to receive the MBE for services to Healthcare.

Pat, who is a Senior Social Worker within HIV Services at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast and has been based in the Royal for 24 years, said she is delighted to accept the honour on behalf of her team.

Pat, who is married to Sam and has three sons, Michael 24, Stephen 21 and Christopher 15, has helped to build and develop the HIV services in Northern Ireland, taking them from a "blank canvas" 20 years ago to the vital service they are today.

Pat commented: "The HIV Social Work team have developed HIV services over the last 20 years; there was nothing here but a blank canvas."

Speaking about her work, Pat said: "I love it, you feel as if you are making a difference to people that are so stigmatised and isolated. I was really quite humbled to receive this MBE. I'm delighted that the service has got the recognition and that I've been recognised for doing the job I love."

There was plenty of cause for celebration when Hillsborough lady Irene Falloon was awarded the MBE for services to the community in Northern Ireland.

The former district nurse, who during her career was responsible for the Community Nursing service in Lisburn Health Centre and founded the existing laundry service based at Lagan Valley hospital, said she was "delighted".

The mother of one, whose husband Ned has Parkinsons is now retired but devotes her time to her family and actively promoting the work of the Lisburn branch of Parkinsons UK.

Irene is also leader of the senior citizens 'Glee Club' at All Saints Church.

"I am honoured that someone nominated me but I would also like to thank all the volunteers who have helped me in my work with the community" she said.

The former Director of Lisburn City Council's Corporate Services has received an MBE.

Mr David Briggs, of Dromara, has been recognised for his services to local government.

Lisburn Mayor, Councillor Allan Ewart, said that he was absolutely delighted that Mr Briggs had been honoured. He said: "I know that I speak on behalf of all my fellow Councillors, both past and present, and all Council Officers when I pass on our warmest congratulations to David and his family."

Mr Ewart continued: "For almost forty years, David worked tirelessly for the Council and its ratepayers, quickly moving up the ranks from Clerical Officer to eventually becoming the Director of Corporate Services and was an integral part of the Council's Senior Management Team.

"Throughout the Council, David was well known for his astute mind, his determination and above all his commitment to the Council and the ratepayers it exists to serve. His meticulous attention to financial detail played an important role in helping to keep the City's rates one of the lowest across Northern Ireland."