BBC Sport NI presenter Stephen Watson has been appointed an MBE in the King's Birthday Honours list for his services to broadcasting and kidney transplant awareness in Northern Ireland. At 55, Watson said he was "truly honoured and humbled" by the unexpected recognition, which acknowledges his three-decade career covering sport across the region.

His broadcasting journey began at UTV before joining BBC Northern Ireland in 1999. Watson has presented at major international events including FIFA World Cups, Olympic Games, Rugby World Cups and Ryder Cups. His extensive coverage of Rory McIlroy's career includes reporting on every major victory, notably the back-to-back Masters wins at Augusta National.

Having undergone two kidney transplants, Watson has channeled personal experience into advocacy work. He regularly fundraises for Northern Ireland Kidney Research, Kidney Care UK and the Children's Kidney Fund NI. Annual events supporting Belfast City Hospital's Regional Nephrology and Transplant Service have become a fixture of his charitable efforts.

Other recipients include Ian Bamford for amateur golf, Alan Crooks for disability football, Richard Lyttle for horse racing, and Brian Walsh for cricket services. Watson's dual recognition in media and health advocacy reflects his unique contribution to Northern Ireland communities through both professional excellence and personal resilience.