Queen’s Birthday Honours: River Spey adviser Dave Craig honoured

Dave Craig has spent decades of his life paddling the River Spey, teaching others of its wonders and preserving it for future generations.

Originally from Stonehaven, the 69-year-old took to the Dee at a young age and knew he had a keen interest in the outdoors.

But it was not until he ventured onto the Spey as a teenager where his “passion” for the waterway blossomed, sparking a years-long career.

As a canoeing coach based in Newtonmore, Mr Craig regularly takes groups out onto the water to learn more about the 106-mile stretch.

He has also worked tirelessly to expand people’s access to the river, and has helped to advise on how it is managed.

For his work he will now receive a British Empire Medal.

A delighted Mr Craig said: “People ask me why I don’t retire, but I like what I do.

“The Spey is my work as well as my passion – I feel it’s very much part of my life.”