Renowned vocal coach and musical director honoured with MBE

A Magherafelt man, who has been named in the New Year's Honours List, has described the recognition as 'an

immense honour and a humbling experience'.

Raymond Ashley Fulton, who is now based in Lisburn, is due to receive an MBE (Member of the Order of the

British Empire).

Known as Ashley, the renowned vocal coach and musical director, was awarded the honour due to his services to

music in Northern Ireland after a 25-year career in the industry.

He has helped nurture talent and inspired others to achieve their full potential.

He has also helped many to shape their career of numerous musical talents.

"It is both an immense honour and a humbling experience to be recognised with an MBE in the New Year's

Honours List,” said Ashley.

“This award is not just a reflection of my journey in music but a testament to the incredible talents and dedication of

the individuals I've had the privilege to work with.

“Music has the power to unite, inspire, and transform, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to its

lifeblood in Northern Ireland. This MBE is absolutely a shared celebration with every student, colleague, and

collaborator who has been a part of my remarkable musical journey.”

This award recognises his influence on the music scene of Northern Ireland and abroad. Some of his past students

regularly performed across the globe, including in the West End and Broadway.

Ashley tutored 490 students who entered in London College of Music with diplomas in musical theatre and

classical singing. Around 3,000 students achieved distinction in graded exams under his tutoring.

Ashley coached Orla Gormley, who is currently performing lyrics in 'Hansel and Gretel' and Emily Dunwoody

performing in the West End 'Les Misérables'.

“I am very proud,” said Ashley about his past students.

“You tutor them and obviously you see them off when they are at the start of their journey. You're there to start their

journey and in some ways, maybe you're the catalyst that starts it. “To watch them develop as mature people and

performers just tells me with such an overwhelming sense of pride, and I'm so unbelievably pleased for them. I'm so

proud of them.”

Ashley also tutored Russell Dickson who is currently touring the UK with 'Wicked The Musical'. He attributed

much of his success to Ashley’s support and mentorship.

"Ashley offered me the chance to walk a road I never even knew existed,” said Russell.

“He continues to be a voice in my head, encouraging me to strive for constant improvement – always pushing me

beyond my comfort zone. My admiration for him as a coach and mentor goes beyond words."

Meanwhile, a number of other people from across the county have also made it onto the New Year's Honours list.

Neil Guckian, Chief Executive, The Western Health and Social Care Trust, will receive an OBE for services to

Health and Social Care and to the community in Northern Ireland.

Donald Alexander Hill has been honoured with a BEM for services to the community in County Derry.

John Smyth is also set to receive a BEM for voluntary and charitable services to the community in Limavady.

Also receiving a BEM is Coleraine dairy farmer Adam Watson for services to mental health in the farming

community in Northern Ireland.