Queen’s award forLiz
A very special celebration took place at Ochiltree Primary School, in East Ayrshire, when Her Majesty The Queen’s personal representative, LordLieutenant Sheriff Iona McDonald, presented a British Empire Medal (BEM) to Senior Clerical Assistant, Elizabeth (Liz) Shannon.
Liz had been awarded the BEM by Her Majesty in October 2020 for services to Education and Sport in East Ayrshire.
But due to Covid-19, the presentation only took place last week.
Ex-provost Jim Todd attended the presentation.
He said: “Liz has dedicated her life to others and I am very glad that East Ayrshire has had the benefit of her warm and generous spirit.”
Liz said: “Since I was a teenager I have always been involved in working with young people. I was a Brownie Leader. After I was married and had my three sons I became a Beaver Leader. I organised many activities and days out for the children. I encouraged my sons to join local clubs and became involved with them. I ran Doon Valley Swimming Club for a wee while until I had to give up through illness.
“The afterschool swimming club was the biggest and most successful of any of the clubs I ran. It was set up originally to raise awareness of water safety and the importance of being able to swim.
“The success of this club is based largely on team work and the willingness of parents and older pupils to work with me and gain the necessary qualifications to become swimming teachers and lifeguards.
“Their hard work and dedication was second to none. This was a great team effort with me leading the way. Their belief in my ability to organise and develop the club has been amazing. Fantastic teamwork.
“The parents and children of Ochiltree Primary School have helped and supported me through some very difficult times, such as illness, trauma and bereavements. “In addition, throughout all of this my family have supported and often helped out along the way.”