Royal recognition for dedicated volunteer

Margaret Devaney, from Kirkintilloch, was presented with the award at an investiture organised by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Dunbartonshire, Rear Admiral Michael Gregory OBE, held in East Dunbartonshire Council’s Southbank Marina headquarters.

It’s a reward for years of selfless service with charity organisations, voluntary community groups, young adults with learning difficulties, and with asylum seeking and young refugees.

Margaret currently holds a place on the East Dunbartonshire Ethnic Minority Forum and recently helped The Kirkintilloch Male Voice Choir raise funds and celebrate their 90th Anniversary.

She’s responsible for the Milngavie Quilters developing their youth initiative and has helped to source funds for East Dunbartonshire visually impaired persons forum. Her interest in using arts to raise awareness in the development of young people has proved invaluable in her work with disadvantaged young people.

The Lord-Lieutenant said: “This rewards achievement of a very ‘hands on’ dedicated service and innovative work with sustained commitment which has delivered real impact to the local community that merits public recognition, and I am delighted to present Miss Devaney with the British Empire Medal which is well deserved”.

East Dunbartonshire Provost Una Walker, who hosted the ceremony, added: “On behalf of the people of East Dunbartonshire, I’d like to congratulate Margaret on this wonderful achievement.

“East Dunbartonshire has a great record when it comes to volunteering and thanks to Margaret and her award today, even more people will be encouraged and inspired to volunteer.”

Entertainment was provided by five students from St Ninian’s High School, who performed musical numbers with their teacher, Miss Harkess.

If you would like to nominate somebody you think deserves an honour, it’s easy - just contact the Clerk of the Lieutenancy by email at [email protected] or phone 01436 810 209.