The famous five
Medals presented to county residents
The British Empire Medal has been presented to five people in Lanarkshire who have served their community.
The medal recognises those who have provided a service to the community without seeking any recognition or reward, but rather have provided these services because it is the right thing to do.
The presentation, made by Lady Susan Haughey CBE, Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, featured an introduction by Clerk to the Lieutenancy and Chief Executive of North Lanarkshire Council Paul Jukes, a welcome from Provost Jean Jones, a summary of citation, and closing remarks from Provost Ian Mcallan.
Five recipients were honoured with one receiving their medal at a later date.
Those recipients were Motherwell woman Veronica Mcdonald, who was being honoured for services to adults with special needs in North Lanarkshire.
As a founding member Veronica has made Firpark Alma Group a fundamental part of the North Lanarkshire community for 36 years. Her formidable leadership means the group is filled with fun and laughter. She said: “The ceremony was very humbling and emotional. The council is very good at recognising those who deserve these honours.”
Other recipients included: Elizabeth Masson Blades, who lives in Carluke, for services to young people and the community in Motherwell, who for 40 years has served as dedicated member of the Fifth Motherwell Girls Brigade.
David Stark, of Hamilton, was awarded for his voluntary services to piping in South Lanarkshire.
David has performed at concert parties, care homes and funerals for countless years.
When requested to play at funerals David has always gone the extra mile at the church and at cemeteries and crematoria to add to the occasion for the bereaved family.
David is also a very enthusiastic local historian and in his own time goes into local schools to provide pupils with a valuable insight into the history of the communities they live in.
Elizabeth Macphail Stoddart, of Hamilton, was given her award for services to the community in Lanarkshire.
She volunteers to use her own car to help those with serious illnesses get the transport they need to their cancer treatment.
She supports the Lanarkshire Care Trust - an organisation with around 120 volunteer drivers who use their own cars to transport patients for various cancer treatments at the renowned Beatson Oncology Centre in Glasgow.
She is also a dedicated member of Hamilton Old Parish Church and has been a member of, and tireless worker for, the Guild for many years.
Elizabeth also runs a weekly decoupage class in the church on a voluntary basis.
Helen Arrol Morton (not pictured), is a retired civil servant. The grandmother received her award for services to children and young people and has been a childline counselling volunteer since 2005. The presentation ceremony took place at the Civic Centre, Motherwell on June 12.
Pictured (standing l-r) Provost Jean Jones (North Lanarkshire Council); Veronica Mcdonald; Lady Haughey CBE, Lord Lieutenant; David Stark; Provost Ian Mcallan (South Lanarkshire Council). Seated: Elizabeth Blades and Elizabeth Stoddart.