Violet’s joy at MBE award

Violet McCabe, a client officer at Invest NI’s Newry office described the day out she enjoyed to Buckingham Palace with her husband Gregory and children last month as “just fantastic.”

The local lady was lucky enough to be presented with her medal by the Queen herself, something she said made the day extra special.

“We didn’t know who would be there on the day but as we were walking into the palace we saw the flag flying so we guessed the Queen was in residence,” said Violet.

“It was such a great day out and is something I will always remember.” Mrs McCabe was delighted to be able to bring her 25-year-old hockey star son Geoffrey and 30-year-old daughter Victoria to see their mum presented with the prestigious award.

“Luckily we could bring three people so it suited us perfectly,” she said. “Geoffrey met us in London after flying travelling from Spain where he is playing a second season of hockey.

“It was a great family experience. There was a screen so I could see them as the Queen personally pinned on the MBE medal.”

And, while others may have been overcome by the sense of occasion, Mrs McCabe, who has worked with various manufacturing companies as well as the Belfast Telegraphin the past, said she made sure she savoured the day following the advice of a previous recipient.

“Councillor Jim McElroy had been over to the Palace a short time before me and he was very nice in visiting the house afterwards and telling me to make sure I enjoyed it. While it may seem like a very nerve-wracking experience I actually found it all rather calm. It was so well-organised and I really enjoyed it.”

Speaking to the Leader when news of Mrs McCabe’s award broke, one of her collagues said she is a very popular member of staff.

“She is always helpful in every way, and clients really seem to warm to her and respect her for the work she does,” said the staff member.