A north-east businessman who began his career as a car engineer has been appointed as a Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire.
Charles Milne, from Buckie, assumed the role following a special lunch held at Pitchroy Lodge in Ballindalloch yesterday.
Mr Milne, who is a father-of-three, has lived in the town all of his life and currently owns the Banff Springs hotel and the Seafield Arms in Cullen.
After qualifying as a motor vehicle engineer the businessman set up his own firm in 1993, Regency Car Sales, before branching out with a property development enterprise.
As well as his commercial interests, Mr Milne is also a long-time supporter of the 1st Buckie Boys’ Brigade.
After the group missed out on winning a minibus in the Press & Journal’s competition this year, the generous businessman donated a £37,000 17-seater vehicle to the company through Regency Car Sales to allow them to run more trips.
Clare Russell, the Lord Lieutenant for Banffshire, said: “I’m delighted that Charles has joined the team and I am looking forward very much to working with him.
“He will be a huge asset to the county.”
Mr Milne is also a founding member of the Buckie Business Retail Association and a member of the town’s Christmas lights committee.