A retired press photographer who spent more than half a century documenting life across south Tyrone has been recognised in The King’s New Year Honours.
Dungannon snapper David Dugal, who worked with the Tyrone Courier for 51 years, has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to the community in County Tyrone — a tribute to a career that shaped how generations saw their local history unfold.
David, who retired last year, first joined the Courier in 1973, stepping behind the camera after what he has fondly described as a “chance encounter” with the newspaper’s previous photographer.
From that point on, he became a constant presence at community events, celebrations, tragedies and milestones, his photographs becoming part of the historical fabric of Mid Ulster life.
Writing shortly after his retirement in April last year, long-time colleague Richard Scott reflected on their five decades working together — from the darkroom days of black-and-white film to the digital era.
“For over fifty years, David has been working with the Courier, taking pictures of everything that was happening in our community and indeed much further afield,” he said.
“David’s care and attention to detail, always getting the right image, was second to none. He caught those moments which on occasions can disappear in a flash — David caught them all.”
Richard recalled their early days developing film by hand, waiting anxiously as images slowly emerged under red light — a world away from the instant results of the modern camera.
“It was like looking into the unknown, until those images appeared on film causing relief all round,” he wrote.
Over the decades, David’s work expanded into wedding photography, family portraits and wildlife — passions which saw his pictures displayed proudly on family walls and, more recently, shared widely online.
His wife Eileen joked that retirement would not mean the camera would be packed away.
“She has assured me he will still be taking plenty of pictures of ‘the birds’ — the feathered ones of course,” Richard added.
David’s BEM places him among a group of local award recipients recognised for contributions to community life, including Samuel Jardine who was given the nod for his public service to the community in County Armagh.
Meanwhile, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has congratulated local people from sport, local government and community sectors who have been recognised in the New Year Honours list.
The Minister said: “I would like to extend my congratulations to the exceptional individuals who have been recognised in this New Year Honours list. The list illustrates the outstanding contributions of those across Northern Ireland who have shown remarkable dedication and achieved significant accomplishments in their chosen field.
“From our world class sporting hero who continues to inspire the next generation to the local government servants and voluntary workers who have made such a positive community impact, I would like to say thank you.
“These Honours represent truly exceptional service to the people of Northern Ireland with each recipient making a meaningful impact to the people they work with and inspire. All your impressive achievements are testament to the power of hard work and excellence in your chosen field, and these honours celebrate the valuable role you play in our communities.”
You can view the full list of recipients here.
