Frank ‘humbled’ with MBE award

Frank ‘humbled’ with MBE award

3 January 2024

THE former chairman and founder of Down Special Olympics said he is “humbled” to receive an MBE in the New Year Honours.

In the late 1990s, Frank Donnelly established Down Special Olympics Club having already been chairman of Special Olympics Ulster.

A retired social worker, Frank worked with people who suffered from intellectual disabilities as he wanted to give back to the community.

“I have enjoyed every day I have worked at Down Special Olympics,” said Frank.

“I share this award with all the tremendous and dedicated volunteers who work so hard in helping our athletes fulfil their potential. It is a true honour.”

Mr Donnelly said he was “absolutely gobsmacked” to learn of his MBE in a letter sent by the Cabinet Office.

He said he could not believe what he was reading and showed the letter to his wife Mary to be doubly sure he was’t making a mistake.

“We were both so happy,” Frank said.

“We were under strict instructions not to tell anyone, but it is nice now that we can share this with everyone at Down Special Olympics.”

Even though Frank has stepped down as the organisation’s chairman, the 86 year-old remains involved with the club.

“I do intend to take more of a back seat this year and let someone else take the club forward, but I will still offer my advice to whoever takes over as chairperson. But the club is good in hands.”

Frank said he cannot understate the efforts of the hardworking volunteers at Down Special Olympics and the work they do, helping and supporting others.

He added: “The volunteers celebrate with our athletes when they win and regroup with them when they are disappointed. The work we do is so rewarding and I could not be happier to share this award with them.”