Andy Simpson named new Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire
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A HIGHLY popular former headteacher has been appointed the new Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire.
Macduff resident Andy Simpson held the top post at Elgin High School for 13 years, before finally retiring in 2016.
During his 36-year teaching career he also worked at Keith Grammar and Turiff Academy.
He is currently the session clerk at Macduff Parish Church and is the immediate past president of Banff Rotary Club.
He also continues to work part-time at the School of Education belonging to the University of Aberdeen.
The 63-year-old is stepping into the footsteps of Clare Russell who has been the Queen's representative for the area since 2002.
Moray's MP welcomed the appointment of Mr Simpson.
Douglas Ross said: "Andy Simpson is an excellent choice to succeed Clare Russell in the role. I’m sure that he will do a first-class job.
"Andy has held many roles in the local community in Banffshire and I am sure that he will do a sterling job representing the interests of local people in the area
"Clare worked tirelessly and she had the wonderful ability to put people at ease and to make them feel important.
"She was a great ambassador for Banffshire and I’m sure that Andy will continue this important work."
Lady Russell is a holding an informal musical garden party and picnic this coming Sunday to mark the end of her long run as Lord Lieutenant, during which she organised 40 Royal visits.
She and her husband, Oliver, will throw open the gates of Ballindalloch Castle grounds from 2.30pm.
The garden party programme includes five Banffshire massed pipe bands – Strathisla, Dufftown, Aberlour, Buckie and Banff, Keith Brass Band, Buckie Boys’ Brigade Bugle Band, Andy McCormack and his Ceilidh Band, and the Kinloss Military Wives Choir.
The event is open to all and entry is free.
