A NORTH Yorkshire businessman has been awarded the CBE for his extensive work in the community.

Bob Murray, 56, from Crayke, near Easingwold is the chairman of Sunderland FC as well as property developers Sterling Capitol and kitchen manufacturers Omega.

Mr Murray, the only son of a Sunderland miner, left school without a job before training to be an accountant at night school.

He said: "I was absolutely thrilled and delighted to receive this honour.

"I feel extremely privileged and see this award as being not just for me personally but for my family and friends who have supported me and helped me reach my goals."

Updated: 11:06 Thursday, June 12, 2003