Former Ireland and British Lions star Trevor Ringland is celebrating today after receiving an MBE in the New Year’s Honours list.

But for a man who made his name thanks to his prowess on the rugby pitch, he has been awarded this accolade for his contribution to Community Relations in Northern Ireland.

Capped 31 times by Ireland, Ringland is involved with Peace Players International, an organisation devoted to promoting unity between Catholics and Protestants in Belfast through sport.

But Ringland wasn’t the only Northern Ireland man receiving such an honour.

Belfast man Brian McCargo has been awarded an OBE for his services to sport and the Special Olympics in Northern Ireland.

Robert Bloomfield is another unsung recipient.

The Dunmurry man was been given an MBE for his voluntary services to Rugby Union in Northern Ireland.

Joining Ringland and Bloomfield in receiving an MBE is Armagh man Dr John Gillespie.

Dr Gillespie has been recognised for his voluntary services to horse racing in Northern Ireland.