A north-east man was last night made an MBE for his services to his local Boys Brigade.
James Muirhead has been a member of the Fraserburgh Boys’ Brigade (BBs) since 1944, when he joined at the tender age of eight.
He went on to become a lieutenant with the group and is today still an active voice as a reserve officer, attending meetings each week to help where he can.
In recognition of his work, in 2010, Mr Muirhead, known fondly as Jimmy, was made the group’s Buchan Battalion’s honorary vice president.
Last night, he was unavailable to comment on his most recent gong.
But Michael Strachan, president of the battalion, said the honour was “overdue” for Mr Muirhead’s work.
Mr Strachan said that “Jimmy” has twice tried to retire from the BBs, but has always come back selflessly to make sure the organisation continues to operate.
He has also served as the secretary for Fraserburgh’s amateur football association, and offered his help to St Combs’ BBs to help the company flourish.
Mr Strachan added: “I am delighted to hear that Jimmy has been awarded an honour by the Queen for services to the Boys’ Brigade.
“Lieutenant Muirhead is a stalwart of the BBs in the Buchan Battalion, his immense contribution over many years – both locally and nationally – being impossible to quantify.
“His recognition is richly deserved and long overdue.”