McIlroy, Clarke among 55 NI people on Queen’s honours list

Golf stars Rory McIlroy and Darren Clarke are among 55 people from Northern Ireland who have been named on the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List.

US Open champion McIlroy was celebrating on holiday after receiving an MBE for services to sport. It caps a spectacular year for the 22-year-old.

Open winner Darren Clarke joins him on the list with an OBE.

“It is quite humbling to be included in such a list of worthy recipients,” said McIlroy.

“Many people on the honours list have made huge personal sacrifices and contributed significantly to society during their lives.

“I feel very fortunate to be in their company.”

‘Very privileged’

Thirty two men and 23 women from Northern Ireland were awarded honours. The youngest was McIlroy, the oldest Robina Parkes, 92, awarded an MBE for community fund raising.

Many of this year’s honours – which come as the UK gears up for the Olympic Games – go to leading sporting figures.

Darren Clarke triumphed at this year’s Open at the age of 42.

“It is a great honour and a fantastic way to end a great year. I am very proud for me and my family,” he said.

“Unfortunately my golf since the Open hasn’t been too special but at this time of the year when you go to awards dinners, it sinks in what you have managed to achieve.