Queen’s honours for Newtownabbey trio

John McMullan, who lives in Jordanstown, was awarded the OBE for his services to social enterprise.

The Chief Executive of the Bryson Charitable Group, who already has an MBE, said being notified of his latest award came as a “lovely surprise”.

Doagh Road woman Karen Todd was awarded the MBE for her public service with the PSNI Pensions branch.

She said she was “delighted and honoured” to receive the accolade.

And David McConkey, Principal at Whitehouse Primary School, was awarded the MBE for his services to education.

Mr McConkey was instrumental in the campaign to get his arson-hit school rebuilt, following a decision by the then Education Minister to shelve the plans.

Pupils were forced to relocate to Newtownabbey Community High following the July 2009 arson attack which completely destroyed the primary school.

Mr McConkey said he was left “shocked and speechless” by the MBE honour.

For full coverage see this week’s Newtownabbey Times...