‘Thank you everyone for the incredible support I’ve been shown over the years’

‘Thank you everyone for the incredible support I’ve been shown over the years’

4 January 2023

THE youngest person to be recognised in the King’s New Years Honours List was award winning author and naturalist Dara McAnulty.

The former Shimna Integrated College student, who was awarded a BEM for services to the environment and people with autism spectrum disorder, said he was “delighted and honoured”.

He said he was pleased to receive a BEM for service to nature and the autistic community and believes the recognition encourages other young people that their voices are worthy and will be heard.

Dara, who is studying Biological Natural Sciences at Cambridge, said he was “delighted and astonished” to be the youngest recipient in New Year’s Honours List.

In a social media post, he described King Charles as a “wonderful supporter of nature and young people” and thanked everyone who had congratulated him.

“I’m so chuffed,” he continued. “Thank you everyone for the incredible support I’ve been shown over the years. I couldn’t continue my work without the encouragement and positivity I receive from so many – especially my brilliant family

And the Castlewellan teenager has revealed that he was moved by a “wonderful inter-generational moment” after meeting the oldest recipient of the British Empire Medal live on BBC Breakfast.

Dara was congratulated on making it onto the first list published since the Queen’s death by Peter Davies from Bollington in Cheshire.

The 100-year-old, who was recognised for his work as a reading volunteer at Dean Valley Community Primary School, had high praise for his fellow guest on BBC Breakfast on New Year’s Day. 

“I congratulate him on his award,” he said. 

“More strength to his elbow. He’s the future, I’m the past – it’s as simple as that. It really is and I’m delighted for him.”

 “Oh my – thank you so much,” Dara replied. “To hear that, we are generations apart but it really means something that we can all come together and really care to show how incredible this world is. Congratulations on your award as well.”

Dara continued: “To be able to spread that joy to children as well – the people who are going to grow up in this world.”

The former Shimna College student became the youngest ever author shortlisted for the Wainwright Prize for UK Nature Writing back in 2020, shared the exchange on social media. 

In a social media post following his appearance on national television, Dara added: “A wonderful inter-generational moment between myself, the youngest person on this year’s Honours List and Peter Davies, who is the oldest. 

“This conversation was such an honour to have. Thank you BBC Breakfast for joining us together this morning.”