A Ballymena community development figure has been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours.

Greg McKinley, operations director of The Gallaher Trust, has been awarded a British Empire Medal for services to the economy in Northern Ireland.

Mr McKinley has been involved with the Ballymena-based organisation and its predecessor companies since 1980.

In 2017 he led the team that established The Gallaher Trust as a lasting legacy after the closure of the Gallaher and JTI operation.

Since then the Trust has focused on creating employment opportunities, upskilling individuals, and supporting disadvantaged adults into work and learning in the area.

Mr McKinley described the award as a team effort and an acknowledgement of the Trust’s work.

Ian Paisley, chair of The Gallaher Trust, said Mr McKinley’s quiet professionalism and genuine care for the community had made him a deserving recipient of the honour.