Stephen and Claire awarded MBEs

Boccia stars Stephen McGuire and Claire Taggart have been recognised in the King’s new year honours list.

Stephen - who won gold in Paris - said it capped a “sensational year”:

“It’s a really proud moment for me and my family and I’ve been really looking forward to sharing the news with all of them, and it’s massive for boccia – there’s no bigger privilege than to compete and to deliver a medal in Paris was a dream and made this an unforgettable year.

“The news is still sinking in! I have so many people to thank who made this possible – my family for their support and allowing me to chase a dream, my team mates and coaches who push me every day in training, and everybody connected with Scottish Disability Sport, Boccia UK and Paralympics GB.”

Boccia UK Performance Director Greg Baker said:

“I’m absolutely thrilled to see Stephen and Claire recognised in the King’s new year honours list. They are hugely dedicated athletes that strive to raise awareness of our sport, encouraging more people to benefit from and to enjoy boccia. They are first-class ambassadors of our sport.”