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Whale boss ‘honoured’ by MBE for service to Northern Irish business

Patrick's company makes water pumps and heaters for caravans

by Tom Lowenstein

The boss of a leading caravan parts manufacturing firm has been awarded an MBE in recognition of his service to the Northern Irish business community.

Patrick Hurst, who is managing director of Whale, was presented with the prestigious title during the 2012 Queen’s Birthday honours list.

The innovative businessman is a co-owner of Whale, which specialises in making water pumps and space-saving underfloor caravan heating systems, and under his guidance the company has become one of the most highly-regarded brands in the industry.

Between 2009 and 2011, Patrick helped the company grow its workforce by 50 per cent as turnover increased by a similar 48 per cent.

His leadership skills have been further reinforced by the Sunday Times, which named Whale as one of the top 100 small business to work for three years in a row.

Patrick said that he was humbled to receive the “tremendous honour”, adding that it is extra special to be presented with the award during the Diamond Jubilee year.

“I have been so lucky to have worked with many great people in Northern Ireland and to have such a supportive workforce,” he said. “It is a real privilege to have been recognised for contributing to the business community.”