Day: June 17, 2023

Summer Ball raises £111,000 for Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland

On Saturday, 10th June 2023, the black-tie fundraising event at The Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow, was attended by nearly 500 people, providing an opportunity for guests to help raise vital funds and awareness for pancreatic cancer.

Scottish stand-up comedian and TV/radio presenter Des Clarke hosted the event with fabulous entertainment throughout the evening and opportunities to win luxury items through tombolas, prize giveaways, an online auction, and a live auction.

David McRae, Managing Director of Just Employment Law, spoke from the heart about sadly losing his mother Margaret to pancreatic cancer seven years ago, the same year he lost his younger brother. He explained that the Summer Ball was again being held in their memory.

A powerful video featuring members of the Just Employment Law and Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland teams played across large TV screens. Marty Bryson, who sadly lost his mum to pancreatic cancer in 2016 when he was only 15, performed two songs he had written in memory of his mum.

Sean McGarvey, son of former Celtic and St Mirren football legend Frank McGarvey, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in January, spoke to guests. Sean thanked Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland for their support of his family. He highlighted the importance of earlier diagnosis and the urgent need to raise funds and awareness to help save lives.

Scottish football journalist and radio presenter Tam Cowan, who lost his father-in-law John to pancreatic cancer in December 2020, led the hugely successful live auction, all while entertaining the guests with his unique brand of comedy.

Before the guests were let loose on the dancefloor, one lucky guest won a Star Prize Giveaway of £5,000 cash on the evening. The guests then danced the night away with the band Waterfront filling the dancefloor.

To date, Just Employment Law has raised nearly £400,000 in aid of Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland, and they are tireless in their support of the cause.

David McRae said: “We were delighted to host our third Summer Ball in support of PCAS and to raise much-needed funds and awareness for the charity. 

“Having lost my own mother to this silent killer, I have first-hand experience of the devastation it causes.  We, and I personally, stand with PCAS and all the excellent work they do.”

Fiona Brown, Development Manager for Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland, said: “We are incredibly grateful to David and the Just Employment Law team, family, friends and networks for their amazing generosity and kindness over a number of years as our charity partners.

“Events like The Summer Ball take a huge amount of organising by the JEL team but can play a key role in raising awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer. It was a wonderful evening and particularly special to have three pancreatic cancer survivors in the room, helping highlight that survival is possible, and earlier diagnosis can save lives.”

Sandra Bigbie, a nine-year pancreatic cancer survivor from Rutherglen, said: “It was an incredible night out and was the most fun I’ve had in years! I would like to thank everyone who was so generous with their donations to raise such an astonishing amount for a very worthy cause.

“I’m sadly part of a very small club of survivors, early diagnosis is the only way to help save more lives, and that is why I am so proud to be able to support Pancreatic Cancer Actions Scotland’s efforts to create a future whereas many people as possible are saved.”

Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland remains dedicated to saving lives via early diagnosis. If you would like to learn more about us and our mission, you can do so here: panact.org

Healthy Tip: Heart Healthy BBQ

Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by the Health Promotion and Education Team at Heart Research UK

Healthy Heart Tip: Heart Healthy BBQ

Nothing quite says summer like the smell of a BBQ! This week’s healthy tip is all about how we can turn a regular not-so-healthy BBQ into a flavour packed heart healthy feast for the whole family to enjoy. We give you tips on how to increase the fibre and reduce the fat content of your usual BBQ spread.

Sizzling skewers

Skewers are great for BBQ’s, and you can fill them with a rainbow of vegetables to help you hit your five-a-day and add some heart-healthy fibre to your meal.

Peppers, courgette, onion, and tomatoes work well together. The key is to cut your veggies into similar size chunks and if you’re using wooden skewers make sure you soak them before grilling so they don’t burn.

Choose fish and chicken

When thinking about a BBQ, burgers and sausages usually spring to mind and while these are fine to eat in moderation, there are heart-healthier options to choose.

Try grilling salmon wrapped in foil with some lemon for an omega-3 rich lean protein source to pair with your skewers. If you still fancy sausages, choose lean chicken varieties which contain less saturated fat.

Add a jacket spud

Jacket potatoes are the perfect BBQ accompaniment as you can cook them in advance and then wrap them in foil to pop on the BBQ to warm up.

They pair perfectly with veggie skewers and salmon to create a balanced heart-healthy delicious BBQ meal to enjoy in the garden.

To help keep your heart healthy, why not try out some of our healthy recipes from our website: https://heartresearch.org.uk/heart-research-uk-recipes-2/.

Re-appeal for information on Sean McGovern who absconded from HMP Castle Huntly

POLICE are re-appealing for information on the whereabouts of 39-year-old Sean McGovern, a prisoner who absconded from HMP Castle Huntly.

Sean was reported missing to police around 10pm on Sunday, 11 June. The most recent information provided to police is that he may have travelled to the Edinburgh or Lothian area. However, despite extensive enquiries and searches, he has not yet been traced.

He is described as white, around 5ft 8ins in height and of stocky build with a scar on his right cheek.

When he absconded he was wearing a dark-coloured woollen hat and a dark-coloured long sleeved top, with light-coloured trousers and trainers.

Officers are again advising members of the public not to approach him if they see him but to contact police.

Anyone who has seen Sean since Sunday evening, or who has any information on his whereabouts is urged to contact 101 with reference 4025 of 11 June. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers through 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.

Scotland warned to brace for significant water scarcity

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) are calling on businesses to pay urgent attention to the growing threat of water shortages and take action, as every part of Scotland has now reached some level of scarcity.

SEPA forecasts that 28 out of 83 areas (a third) will be at Significant water scarcity level by 30th June 2023 if there is no recovery in river levels.

The latest report, published on SEPA’s website, reveals there has been no respite in any area, and the risk has increased for most. The isolated thunderstorms have done little to alleviate the situation and ground conditions continue to dry rapidly.

The Loch Maree area reached Significant last week, the highest risk level, and remains there this week. The Ness also remains at Moderate scarcity, the second highest level, and is joined by the Inner Hebrides, parts of the central belt, and the whole Southwest. The rest of Scotland is in Alert, with the exception of the Shetland islands at Early Warning.

The hot, dry weather is expected to continue and dominate into late June and early July, with any further short periods of intense rain unlikely to help water levels recover sufficiently. It follows a drier than average winter across most of the country, and a particularly dry May when Scotland received only 44% of the long-term average rainfall.

The First Minister last week convened a meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGoRR), which focused on the situation and Scotland’s National Water Scarcity Plan. The plan is designed to ensure the correct balance is struck between protecting the environment and providing resource for human and economic activity during prolonged dry periods, and clearly sets out what actions SEPA and abstractors are required to take at each stage.

Engagement with businesses abstracting water from the environment has been ongoing to help build resilience and warn of the increasing likelihood of extreme weather events such as water scarcity.

SEPA has seen many examples of good practice and innovation, but the severity of the situation now means we must consider suspending abstraction licences in the coming week in the worst affected areas, including Dumfriesshire and other parts of the Southwest.

Guidance has been issued on which abstractors may be excluded from restrictions or have the volume of water they can take reduced rather than stopped. This will only be possible for a small number of abstractors. SEPA will be in direct contact with businesses affected to provide additional advice.

Nathan Critchlow-Watton, Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, said: “Scotland’s climate is changing, and we urgently need to adapt. Severe water scarcity has significant impacts on our environment, our economy and society. Our rivers and lochs are under immense stress and it’s clear further action will be needed to protect them.

“We’ve been working with businesses for some time, with a clear message around adaption. We’re seeing some progressive and innovative responses and we understand the challenges Scottish businesses are facing. That’s why any decision to suspend licences will not taken lightly. However, the situation is deteriorating fast, and we strongly urge those abstracting water from the environment to be aware of the immediate risk and follow our advice and guidance.

“Last year, we warned a decrease in summer rainfall may exert pressure on areas that have not experienced water scarcity before, and that’s now happening. It is vitally important that Scotland is prepared to deal with water scarcity both now and in the future and people work together to plan for and manage water scarcity events.”

The combination of very low river flows and high temperatures poses a real threat to fish, invertebrates and plants. While some parts of river ecology can recover quickly, others such as fish and plant populations can be seriously damaged longer-term or lost completely.

Abstractors and irrigators are asked to manage water wisely, check SEPA’s water scarcity reports regularly and be aware of the situation in their area. They should regularly check abstraction equipment to make sure it’s in good condition and fix any leaks straight away. During dry periods, the volume and rate of abstractions should be reduced where possible.

It is also crucial for businesses to have a contingency plan for if restrictions are put in place by SEPA on abstractions. This can include using an alternative source if available within current authorisations.

More information, guidance and advice can be found at :

www.sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity.

Edinburgh developer announces fitting charity partnership

Landmark project paves the way for children’s charity sponsorship

A PREMIUM developer which is transforming the former Royal Hospital for Sick Children building has now announced a partnership with the charity that supported it.

Square & Crescent has officially partnered with Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity (ECHC) after kicking off the careful refurbishment of The Royal Hospital for Sick Children earlier this year.

The premium Edinburgh developer is now an official charity partner of ECHC, which helps seriously ill children across the Lothians by supporting their medical care, mental health, and family’s wellbeing.

ECHC’s former headquarters is one of the buildings being converted within the major Royal Meadows development, which will see the former hospital building transformed into a mix of luxury townhouses and apartments.

Kate Dixon, Corporate & Partnerships Lead at Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity said: “Our work is reliant on support from donations, volunteers, and corporate partners so to have the backing of one of Edinburgh’s finest residential developers is extremely valuable to us.

“The former hospital building has a lot of meaning to us and the partnership instantly made sense as it allows us to keep a connection.

“We help thousands of children who visit hospital every year. Being ill and needing hospital care can be difficult, scary, and lonely and we work hard to make the experience as positive as possible.

“Whether it’s bringing pioneering equipment to Scotland, designing a dance class to support children’s physiotherapy, performing theatre in critical care or transforming a clinical area – Square & Crescent’s support is going to be integral to helping us reach every child who comes through the hospital doors.”

To kick off its partnership, the Square & Crescent team are preparing to tackle Edinburgh’s Seven Hills Challenge to raise much needed funds.

The charity was founded in the 1980s where it was based at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children site near Edinburgh’s Meadows, before the hospital’s relocation to Little France in 2021.

The Royal Meadows development is targeted for completion in 2025, and is set to launch a sales suite in late summer this year. It spans across four-acres and is situated one mile from Princes Street and a short walk from Lothian Road, benefitting from a city centre location.

Euan Marshall, Co-Founder and joint Managing Director of Square & Crescent said: “The work Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity is doing is priceless for children and young people across the city and beyond.

“There is a natural link between Royal Meadows and Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, so the partnership already has a special meaning.

“From company-wide challenges to voluntary days and donations, we can’t wait to help in whatever way we can to support the charity’s incredible efforts.”

Square & Crescent is now a widely-regarded residential developer with a primary focus on the acquisition, development and refurbishment of beautiful homes.

For more information on Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, visit:

https://echcharity.org/

For more information on Royal Meadows, or to register interest, please email sales@squareandcrescent.com or call Lesley Coyle on 07586 129184.

For more information on Square & Crescent, visit https://squareandcrescent.com/

Inspirational Scottish Cancer Card founder recognised on King’s Birthday Honours List

Jen Hardy, founder of Cancer Card which supports anyone affected by cancer, has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) award in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2023. The honorary awards recognise the most inspiring achievements and service of people across the UK.

Jen founded Cancer Card following her diagnosis of incurable breast cancer in 2017. Facing her own struggles in trying to access the correct support for herself and her family, she has made it her aim to ensure that no cancer patient in Scotland will ever have to face the same challenges. 

Supporting all those affected by cancer, Cancer Card is a one stop shop which easily guides cancer patients and their loved ones to the services that will best support them. The charity’s online support hub allows them to find the help they need in one place and connect with a community of people who are going through similar experiences. This includes key sources of support which can help with finance, transport to and from hospital appointments, complementary therapies and free gifts and experience. 

As well as founding and leading Cancer Card, Jen was instrumental in successfully campaigning to make Pertuzumab (Perjeta) available via NHS Scotland, a drug which can help to extend life projections within cancer patients.

Driven by her own frustration of finding out that the drug was available on NHS England but not NHS Scotland, she gathered a huge amount of support from other cancer patients and the Scottish communities and succeeded in her goal to have Perjeta established in Scotland.  Thousands of people in Scotland each year continue to benefit from her active and persistent campaigning for the drug. 

This award recognises Jen’s outstanding leadership skills and inspirational support for all those affected by cancer across the country. Despite navigating her own stage 4 cancer journey day-to-day, including regular hospital treatment, she continues to work tirelessly for the charity, driving the culture of openness, honesty, and genuine desire to help support those impacted by cancer.  

Jen Hardy, Founder at Cancer Card, said: “Cancer Card is more than a charity to me. It is a labour of love inspired by my own journey and driven by the desire to bring hope and support to others battling cancer.

“We understand that cancer affects more than the patient and are focussed on providing access to the support needs of partners, families and friends too as they try to come to terms with the world of cancer.

“Unfortunately Perjeta wasn’t available in Scotland at the point when it would have helped me. However I am so grateful that this drug, which is extending lives every day, is now available in Scotland.

“We are already seeing the difference that Cancer Card is making to so many people, by enabling them to access everything they need in one place and take less time out of their day-to-day lives to do so.

“Our team is so thankful for all of the support that we have received over the past few years and we are working to widen our impact even more, with the aim of ensuring that our physical Cancer Cards, which provide a fast-track QR code to our online hub, are available in all hospitals, GP practices, libraries and Maggie’s Centres throughout Scotland.

“Receiving this award is more than I could have ever dreamed of. It consolidates the importance and purpose of what we do everyday.”

Miles Briggs, Member of the Scottish Parliament for Lothian, said: “I would like to offer my wholehearted congratulations to Jen on being included on the King’s first Birthday Honours list for her services to the promotion of Cancer Awareness in Scotland.

“I have been inspired by her campaigning and determination to make a difference to other people’s lives. Jen has put in a power of work to help create a one-stop information portal for others who have been diagnosed with cancer and their families. Her tireless work, along with that of her team and countless volunteers, has been an inspiration to all of us and the success of Cancer Card is a testament to this.

“Jen’s inclusion on the Honours list recognises her determination to help others and is no more than she deserves.”

Ian Pirrie, Chief Executive at Cancer Card, said: “Jen is truly one of the most inspiring individuals I know and there is nobody more deserving of this prestigious award.

“Unfortunately, more than 3 million people in the UK are living with cancer. The support that Cancer Card provides is helping to alleviate the unnecessary stresses that so many would have previously faced following their cancer diagnosis, whilst also trying to deal with the emotional toll that comes alongside this. The Cancer Card team and I are delighted that her hard work and sheer dedication to improving the lives of others has been recognised.”  

Cancer Card has recently been announced as a finalist for the Digital Leaders 100 Awards 2023 ‘HealthTech Innovation of the Year’ category.

The final will take place in June and praises those who are driving transformational change by leveraging technology to improve healthcare provision and service efficiency across the UK.

Voting is now open at https://digileaders100.com/healthtech-innovation. 

Eyre Place planning application: MSP hails ‘power of community’

A Scottish Government Reporter appointed to consider the Eyre Place planning application has dismissed the developer’s appeal and refused planning permission.  

Nearly 400 objections to the planning application 22/0384/FUL (Student Accommodation) 72-74 Eyre Place were received from residents. The residents were largely concerned with the overall scale of the development, its overbearing presence blocking natural light for neighbours, and dense accommodation which would overburden local infrastructure and amenities. 

Many local residents, therefore, felt the proposal was not compatible with the character of the area in terms of use or design and could also increase noise and disturbance due to plans that the top storey of the flats would be dedicated to ‘entertainment’ and karaoke booths. 

On 11 January 2023, it was unanimously agreed by The City of Edinburgh Council’s Planning and Development Management Sub-Committee that a hearing would be held, so that local residents and developers could make their case in the Council chambers, before a final vote was held.

However, the developers, CA Europe Operating Company, appealed, and a Reporter, (a lawyer appointed by Scottish Government Ministers), instead was tasked to decide on the merits of the planning application. 

Foysol Choudhury, list MSP for Lothian, raised deep concerns at the time about the fact that the public hearing would not take place and that the voices of local residents would not be heard, with local democracy being sidelined by the developer’s appeal. 

Responding to the news that the Reporter has now dismissed the developer’s appeal and that planning permission has been denied, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “My constituents are overjoyed at this result and they should be congratulated for all their hard work in organising as a community, to ensure their concerns about this planning application were heard by elected officials. 

“Many of my constituents told me that the community was in despair, not just because of the proposed development but because they felt the decision to sideline the public hearing led to their voices being silenced. 

“The developers attempted to bypass local democracy and failed in their appeal, which is of course a relief for my constituents, but we must learn lessons so that local democracy is not circumvented like this again in the future.  

“Nevertheless, I am glad that this deeply unpopular planning application has been denied. It’s great to see what can be achieved through the power of community!” 

Local resident, Hannah Edwards, said: “Our community is delighted with the Reporter’s decision. It reflects what was obvious to so many when we first saw this aggressive proposal 18 months ago.

“A development of this size on a constrained site would have had a really negative impact on the lives of so many. We’re eternally grateful to each and every person who fought so hard to get the result we were so dearly hoping for.” 

Over 100 arrested in ‘record breaking’ illegal working crackdown 

The Home Office deployed over 300 immigration officers on over 150 enforcement visits in one day to crack down on illegal working across the UK 

The Home Office has conducted a record number of visits targeting illegal working in one day, as part of a nationwide operation.

During the operation, which took place across the UK yesterday, Immigration Enforcement officers arrested 105 foreign nationals found working without the right to do so during 159 illegal working visits.

The arrests took place at commercial premises including restaurants, car washes, nail bars, barber shops and convenience stores.

Suspects were arrested for offences including illegal working and possession of false documentation, with sums of cash seized at some locations.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attended an early morning visit in Brent, North London, to observe Immigration Enforcement officers at work as part of the day of action.

Home Secretary, Suella Braverman said: “Illegal working harms our communities, cheats honest workers out of employment and defrauds the public purse as no taxes are paid. As the Prime Minister has set out, we are committed to tackling the abuse of our laws and borders.

“We know the prospect of black-market employment is a significant attraction for migrants considering making dangerous and illegal journeys to the UK.  Operations such as today send a clear message that we will not stand for this.”

Of those arrested, over 40 were detained by the Home Office, pending their removal from the UK, with the remaining suspects being released on immigration bail. It is also expected that a number of the arrests will result in voluntary departure from the UK.

Offenders of over 20 different nationalities were found to be working without the right to do so in the UK.

The operation builds on the ongoing work by Immigration Enforcement officers to clamp down on illegal working which is a key part of the government’s approach to stopping the boats.

This work tackles illegal migration by breaking the business model of criminal gangs who use the offer of black market jobs as one way to draw people to the UK illegally.

In the first quarter of 2023, Immigration Enforcement teams delivered 1,303 enforcement visits, a 57% increase on the same period last year, and since the PM set out his plan to stop the boats in December, arrests have now doubled since the same period last year.

Director of Enforcement, Compliance and Crime, Eddy Montgomery, added: “This result demonstrates the dedication and professionalism of our officers to take action against immigration offenders, as well as employers who are not complying with the rules. Our enforcement teams are working around the clock to deter immigration offending and help protect the public.

“Working closely with partners and agencies including the police and the National Crime Agency, we are tackling illegal working at every level. It is vital that we not only identify individuals in breach of immigration law but target the people smuggling networks behind this type of criminal activity.”

Artist Bill Drummond gifts painting to Western General Hospital

Staff, patients and visitors at the Western General Hospital welcomed conceptual artist, Bill Drummond, to officially commence the loan of his ‘The Boy Friends’ Painting’ for the next year. As part of the event, guests also heard the artist speak about the inspiration for and background to the work.

Bill created The Boy Friends’ Painting to support local Portobello poet and author, Michael Pedersen’s memoir, Boy Friends, about losing a friend before their time. In 2018, Michael lost his cherished friend, Scott Hutchison, to suicide.

Scott was the genius singer song writer of Frightened Rabbit, whose back catalogue has influenced music makers for years and touched the lives of music lovers all over the world.

Michael asked Bill to do a painting for the launch of the book and he created a large 190 x 130cm canvas with the text “The Boy Friends’ Painting”. He has invited others to paint some of the painting and then, on the back of the canvas, add the name of the person they have lost too soon. By doing so, they become immortalised as part of Bill Drummond’s art for evermore.

Dr Catherine Quinn, Consultant, Medicine of the Elderly and POPS at the Western General, became aware of the painting while attending the Boy Friends book launch in The Queen’s Hall in Edinburgh.

She said: “When Bill invited people to offer to take the painting for a year to use it wherever they thought it may improve the wellbeing of others, a few other hospital consultants and I thought this would be such an amazing piece to have at the Western General.

“Bill was really keen on the idea of it being displayed where patients, staff and visitors could view it and hopefully gain some benefit from interacting with it, so has gifted it to us for a year.

“We are delighted that he made a special visit to Edinburgh this week to explain the background to the painting and invite others to be part of this journey celebrating the lives of the friends we loved and lost. During its time with us, the canvas is likely to change significantly, but that’s part of the aim.”

The team at the Western General is working with NHS Lothian Charity’s Tonic Arts team to support the display and sharing of the work.

Susan Grant, Tonic Arts Manager, said: “This is such a generous gesture by artist Bill Drummond. Loans and events like this really help to reinforce how important art and creativity are in healthcare settings.

“Art can help take you out of yourself, sometimes providing relief and distraction from what is happening to you; sometimes providing a therapeutic process. What may seem like the simple act of contributing the name of a loved one to a piece of art can help honour a memory and can help in some small way towards healing. That’s the beauty of art, it can support so many people in such a variety of ways.”

Bill Drummond said: “I’m very pleased, it sounds pretentious, but I’m honoured to have the painting at the Western General with the NHS being under so much pressure.”

Bill Drummond has had a prodigious and eclectic art career that, since 1976, has taken on a multitude of forms including writing and performing music (he’s a founding member of the KLF), managing bands (Echo and the Bunnymen), running record labels, forming art foundations, writing, publishing, lecturing, and painting. He has supported countless other artists in their creative journeys.

Michael Pederson wrote the very moving Boy Friends book as a means of confronting the bewildering process of grief. What starts as a love letter to his best friend, becomes a celebration of friendship and an exploration of the gap that is left when someone you love leaves this world before their time.

The painting will be displayed in the Anne Ferguson café area of the Western General Hospital.

The King’s Birthday Honours

First Minister congratulates Scotland’s Honour recipients

First Minister Humza Yousaf has paid tribute to Scotland’s recipients in The King’s Birthday Honours list, in the first round following his Coronation.

In recognition of exceptional contributions to public life and in keeping with the Coronation theme of “The Big Help Out”, this year’s awards celebrate recipients that have contributed to their community and undertaken voluntary services.

Jackie Baillie, the Deputy Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, has been awarded a Damehood for political and public service, while those being awarded a CBE include, Thomas Evans, Professor of Molecular Microbiology, University of Glasgow, for services to healthcare during Covid-19 and Peter Lawson, Chair of Scottish Opera, for services to the arts.

Among those receiving an OBE is Fiona McKenzie, the founder of Centrestage, Kilmarnock, for services to the community in East Ayrshire. Gordon Reid, wheelchair tennis player, receives an OBE for services to tennis. The Head of Events and Exhibitions at the Scottish Parliament, Roy Devon, is recognised for services following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.

Those receiving MBEs include Sally Magnusson, broadcaster and author, for services to people with Dementia and their carers. Annie McSween DL, Comunn Eachdraidh Nis (Ness Historical Society, Isle of Lewis), for services to the Scots Gàidhlig language, and Dr Inderjit Singh, for voluntary and charitable services, also receive MBEs. The founder of Finding Your Feet, Corinne Hutton, receives an MBE for her work raising awareness of sepsis and amputees.

Archibald Jenkins, for services to charity and to the community in Peebles, and Anne McCreadie, for services to the community in Merkinch, Inverness, are among those honoured with a BEM.

Malcolm Graham, Deputy Chief Constable, and Kenneth MacDonald, Assistant Chief Constable, Police Scotland, will receive The King’s Police Medal. The King’s Fire Service Medal will be awarded to Matt Acton, Area Commander, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Julie Shields, Head of Service for the East Region, Scottish Ambulance Service will receive The King’s Ambulance Service Medal.

The First Minister said: “Those recognised have made outstanding contributions to communities across Scotland and beyond. Their service and dedication makes our country a better place for everyone and I am pleased to see this has been recognised.

“I also want to congratulate those personnel who have been awarded The King’s Fire, Police or Ambulance Service Medals. Scotland’s emergency services keep us safe every day of the year and serve our communities with distinction. Their hard work and dedication is deeply appreciated.” 

Scottish Secretary congratulates Scottish honours recipients

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said: “My warmest congratulations go to all the Scottish recipients of the King’s birthday honours.

“Scots are well represented in His Majesty’s first honours list, which showcases the best of Scottish talent – including sport, the arts, community and education.

“Footballing legend John Greig’s CBE is a fitting tribute to his lifetime contribution to Scottish sport, and his charitable work raising funds for veterans and supporting facilities for people with dementia.

“Broadcaster and national treasure Ken Bruce receives an MBE in recognition of his many decades of UK broadcasting. Bill Gray has been a stalwart of the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland for many years, and played a key role in the organisation’s recovery from covid. And Councillor James Stockan receives an OBE for his unstinting work to improve the lives of island communities as the leader of Orkney Council.

“I also pay tribute to the many Scots who have been recognised for their selfless and unstinting charity and voluntary work. The length and breadth of Scotland, the commitment of so many unsung heroes keeps local communities not just alive but thriving. I am very pleased that so many of those committed citizens have been recognised today.”

The Scottish recipients include:

  • Jackie Ballie MSP, Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire. For political and public service.
  • John Greig (former Rangers and Scotland player), CBE: For services to football and the community in Scotland.
  • Ken Bruce (broadcaster), MBE: For services to radio, to autism awareness and charity.
  • Gordon Reid (professional wheelchair tennis player), OBE. For services to tennis. Gordon is a Paralympic gold, silver, and bronze medallist
  • Sally Magnusson (broadcaster and author), OBE: For services to people with dementia.
  • Councillor James Stockan (Leader of Orkney Islands Council), OBE: For services to local government.
  • Paul Little (Principal and Chief Executive of City of Glasgow College), OBE. For services to education.
  • Bill Gray (former chair of the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland), OBE. For services to agriculture, charity and the community in Scotland. Bill has served the RHASS for a number of years as director and chair. He helped the organisation – and the Royal Highland Show – recover after covid. Bill is also active in developing farming education and skills.
  • Jen Hardy (cancer campaigner), OBE. For services to cancer support. Jen, herself living with cancer, has become an inspirational campaigner for cancer treatment and support services. She successfully lobbied for the life-extending drug Pertuzumab (Perjeta) to be made available on the NHS in Scotland. She also founded the charity Cancer Card.
  • Jim Stewart (former chair of Hamilton Sound talking newspaper), OBE: For services to visually impaired people. Jim set up the Hamilton Sound talking newspaper in 1983, distributing audio recordings of the local paper to local visually impaired people. He ran the service for 39 years, only standing down as chair in 2022.
  • Jill Lauder, (hairdresser), OBE: For services to the community. Jill owns Lady J’s Unisex Hair Salon in Grangemouth and provides a free service for cancer patients. Jill set up the Feel Good Project, which, on the first Monday of every month, offers beauty treatments, support, advice, information and friendship to women who are experiencing hair loss due to treatment for cancer.

The King’s Birthday Honours 2023.