An OBE for gran Nora
O BE for former tax worker
A retired tax worker says she is “overwhelmed” at being given an OBE in the New Year’s Honours List.
Nora Houston, who spent 29 years of her working life in East Kilbride’s Centre 1 and Plaza offices, has been recognised for her services to taxpayers.
The mum and gran-oftwo grew up in East Mains and now lives with her husband of 38 years, Eddie, in Hairmyres.
Nora ended her career as a senior delivery manager for personal tax in HMRC’s Glasgow office after being promoted in 2015 but she began as an admin assistant in 1986 in the old Centre 1 building in East Kilbride.
Having worked in a bank for 10 years after leaving St Bride’s High, Nora decided on a new career path.
And she said she loved every minute and can’t believe she has received recognition from Her Majesty for simply doing her job.
“I was a bit overwhelmed when I heard about the honour,” the 60-year-old said. “But I’m delighted.
“It seems really strange to receive an award for doing my job and it is incredibly humbling.
“I loved my job and I did always focus on trying to improve services for taxpayers. I feel lucky to have worked with so many lovely colleagues.
“I was privileged to attend a royal garden party at Buckingham Palace in 2010 in recognition of work I was involved in and that was an amazing experience.”
Since retiring Nora has enjoyed spending time with family and friends, particularly her two grandchildren, four-year- old Thomas and ninemonth-old Sienna, but remembers her working life fondly.
“I would say I am very much a people person and was well known for my walkabouts in the office listening and responding to staff ideas and suggestions,” she said.
“In 2016 I was nominated by my staff and won HMRC leader of the year in the People Awards.
“To win this was fantastic but to be honoured with an OBE is unbelievable.
“I have been amazed by messages of congratulations from so many friends, family and ex-colleagues who are all extremely proud of my achievement.”
Nora has been involved in voluntary work over the years with South Lanarkshire Children’s Panel and is currently the church representative on Our Lady of Lourdes School Parent Council.
I was a bit overwhelmed when I heard...