Larne woman Hazel awarded OBE for services to social housing

Hazel Bell was a long-standing board member and former chair of Choice Housing Ireland Limited.

A well-known figure in the community, Hazel is also a former Larne town centre manager and a past president of Larne Rotary Club.

Speaking to the Larne Times last week, the local woman said she was “completely overwhelmed” when she received the news of the honour back in June. “Over 25 years ago my father received an OBE, and I can remember how proud the whole family was of him at that time,” Hazel added.

“He and my mum aren’t with us any more, so it’s nice but also very emotional.

“It’s wonderful that people thought the things that I have enjoyed doing over the past few years should be marked in this way.”

Alongside her role in the social housing sector, Hazel has also been involved with the Simon Community, as well as Larne-based organisations AEL and LEDCOM.

Congratulating Hazel on her award, in a statement on Choice Housing’s website, Michael McDonnell, group chief executive, said: “I wish to thank Hazel for her wonderful leadership at Choice. Since becoming chair in 2016, Hazel guided the group through a period of considerable change and positive transformation.

“Choice staff, tenants and the wider community can attest to her vision, dedication and rock-solid social values. Congratulations on behalf of everyone at Choice on receiving this special honour.”

Hazel also served on the board of the Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations (NIFHA) where she has worked hard to deliver housing and support services for communities across the country.

Ben Collins, chief executive of NIFHA said: “Hazel Bell joined the NIFHA Board in May 2018 and has been a very constructive member of the board.

“As chair of Choice, Hazel played a leadership role for the sector and helped to ensure that we continue to provide much needed new homes, services for tenants and community investment.”