Locals named in Queen's Birthday Honours List

Sadie Beck, who received a BEM for her services to Nursing and voluntary service to Cancer Research UK in Banbridge, said she was ‘over the moon’.

“I never expected anything at all,” said Sadie, who worked as a midwife at Banbridge Hospital until its closure, and volunteered with the Cancer Research charity for 20 years.

Originally from West Cork, Sadie said: “The people of Banbridge, and from both sides of the community, have been very good to me, as have the people of my church, Banbridge Church of Ireland.

“I enjoy my work and I’ve been very happy in nursing.”

Sadie, who trained for midwifery at the age of 21, took a post at Banbridge Hospital in 1958. By 1961, she had been promoted to sister.

Jo-Anne Dobson MLA said: “Sadie, known to us all as ‘Sister’ Beck, has given so much to the people of Banbridge and it’s right her legacy is honoured.

“If ever a person deserved recognition it is Sadie, a truly remarkable lady, who as a midwife delivered me and I would suggest almost half of the town!”

Meanwhile Mr Ian McCullough said he was ‘delighted’ to receive a BEM for services to Young People in Northern Ireland through the Boys’ Brigade, but added ‘it’s not just for me - but for the many people who have supported me’.

“I’m fortunate to have a lot of loyal officers - it’s a job you can’t do on your own,” he said.

The Belfast estate agent has had a life-long commitment to the First Dromara Presbyterian organisation which he first attended as a young boy before going on to give 50 years as an officer, serving as captain since 1983.

Ian has also served as Battalion president, on various committees including the Northern Ireland Executive committee, and is committed to the overseas work in Uganda where the BB have been helping to develop schools.

“I grew up through the local company and felt part of it and when I was given the opportunity to train as officer it was something I wanted to do.

“Over the years we’ve had hundred’s of boys through our organisation and at present have 120 boys attending, as we work to fulfil the aim of the BB - ‘to advance Christ’s kingdom among boys.’”