Two well-known community figures in south Belfast have been awarded MBEs in the Queen’s New Year Honours list.

Billy Tate, principal of Belvoir Park Primary School, was awarded a MBE for services to education in Northern Ireland, while Mr Andrew Wong, Lay Magistrate and owner of the Welcome Group chain of hotels and restaurants, was awarded the same accolade for services to the Chinese community in Northern Ireland.

Portadown-born Principal Tate, who gained his teaching qualifications at Stranmillis College and Queen’s University, has been head of Belvoir Park Primary School for 22 years.

The married father-of-four has helped the school develop respected speech and language facilities.

Speaking to The CT, Principal Tate, 55, said receiving a MBE was “a great honour for the school”.

“I am delighted for the parents, pupils and staff,” said Principal Tate.

“What it means for the school is that it is an endorsement for the work we have been doing over the last four or five years.”

Speaking about his hopes for Belvoir Primary School, Principal Tate added: “What I really hope is that the children who attend do well in the educational system.

“And for the school itself, I’d love to see the outstanding building work that is required for the school to finish and that the board would find the money to do this.”

Stranmillis resident Andrew Wong said he was “lost for words” when he heard the news of his MBE.

“Me and my family are so thrilled at the news and the recognition it gives the family for contributing to the local community,” said the 52-year-old grandfather of three.

“Serving the Chinese community, is so rewarding and it is good to give something back and be recognised for that.”