Members of staff at the Irish Football Association have been recognised for their long service to the association.
Irish FA Chief Executive Patrick Nelson and Irish FA President Conrad Kirkwood presented Long Service Awards to several staff members at a special presentation event.
As CEO I feel immense pride and this was a fitting way in which to recognise their considerable efforts in a variety of different fields
Staged in the Pat Jennings Lounge at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park, the ceremony recognised those who have given 15 years or more service.
Patrick Nelson said: “This was a memorable evening for many of our valued members of staff who have dedicated a significant number of years to promoting, fostering and developing football in Northern Ireland.
“As CEO I feel immense pride and this was a fitting way in which to recognise their considerable efforts in a variety of different fields.”
Among the staff receiving awards at the event were five employees who have been with the organisation for 20 years or more. They are: Jim Grattan (28 years), Ian Stewart (26 yrs), Angela McKibbin (26 yrs), Karen Dunne (22 yrs) and Alan Crooks (20 yrs).
Other recipients included Karen Chambers (18 years), Craig Bowers, Philip Melville, Sean Paul Murray, Malcolm Roberts and Kyle Spiers (all 17 yrs), Keith Gibson and Leigh Sillery (both 16 yrs).
And receiving awards for 15 years’ service were Heather Kerr, Ciaran Donaghy, Jackie Blyth and Jordan Reid.
Other staff members who were unable to attend the ceremony, but who have also received recognition, include the three longest serving members of staff currently with the association: Glenda Dines (38 years), Karen McCleave (32 yrs) and David Currie (29 yrs).
Also unable to attend the ceremony were Tracey Scott (21 yrs), Richard Currie (20 yrs), Nicola Jamison (19 yrs), Stephen Erskine, Sueann Harrison, Kevin Doherty and Steven Livingstone (all 17 yrs) as well as Gail Redmond (15 yrs).
In total 28 members of staff have received Long Service Awards.
