Noel Bailie awarded the MBE

Noel from Hillsborough who recently lost his mother, described the news as being a ‘proud day’ for him and his family.

“I was initially shocked when I got the news but since the news has started to sink in, I naturally feel very pleased and humbled to have been nominated for this award and delighted and flattered to have been awarded this prestigious honour,” he said.

“It’s a proud day for my family and I, although of course it’s a day tinged with sadness after the recent passing of my mother.

“My dad and my kids are delighted and I know my mum would have been very proud too.

“I’ve received so many phone calls and texts of congratulations and I just want to thank everyone for their best wishes. Michael Gault and Gary Eccles have texted me but there have been so many texts from players, staff and supporters and I want to thank everyone for their kindness.”]

He thanked everyone for their kindness

“I’ve read all the messages from the supporters clubs - Kingsway, Lisburn, South Belfast, Shankill and Bangor on the website and again I want to thank them all,” he said.

“I’ve also read the messages from individual supporters on the website and thanks to them and the manager who also put a lovely message on the website about this special award.

“I’m so grateful for all the support so thank you to everyone for their thoughtfulness.”