Long-serving community council members in Aberdeenshire are recognised
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The dedication of community council members from across Aberdeenshire has been recognised in an awards ceremony.
The Community Council Long Service Awards honoured more than 40 community council representatives who have each served for more than 20 years.
The event, held by Aberdeenshire Council at Inverurie Community Campus, was hosted by Provost of Aberdeenshire Councillor Judy Whyte, who praised those attending for their hard work over the years.
She said: “People often get involved to tackle an issue close to their heart and then stay on to serve for many years. Others step forward to ensure the continuation of that local voice
“Your contributions over the years have been significant, and have no doubt played an important part in Aberdeenshire regularly topping the tables of being one of the best places in the country to live.”
It is 50 years since community councils came into being, under the Local Government Scotland Act in 1973.
Since then, community council members have played an increasing role in working with Aberdeenshire Council, commenting on planning applications, securing funds for local initiatives and supporting communities at times of need.
As the awards got under way, each representative was presented with a certificate and a community council branded pen in recognition of their service. A commemorative cake was cut, and music was played by pupils from Inverurie Academy.
The event also provided an opportunity for community council representatives to meet each other and share stories, and to hear about the support available to the groups.
In attendance was Leader of Aberdeenshire Council Councillor Gillian Owen, who said: “It was a lovely evening, and a great opportunity to recognise the long-standing and ongoing dedication of community councils to their communities.
“Community councils play such an important role locally and it’s important that they continue to thrive.
"I would encourage anybody with an interest in supporting their communities to find out more about the work of their local group and to consider joining when the opportunity arises.”
For more information about Aberdeenshire community councils and opportunities to get involved, visit www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/communities-and-events/community-councils
The full list of award recipients was:
Fordyce, Sandend and District Community Council: Bertie Robertson, Ivan Owen, Jane Winfield.
New Aberdour, Tyrie and Pennan Community Council: Gordon Duguid.
Whitehills Community Council: Charles Findlay, Duncan Leece.
Cruden Community Council: Stuart Johnson.
Deer Community Council: George Burnett Stuart, Hamish MacDonald, Liz Grieve, Norman Burnett, Sandra Buckman.
Longside Community Council: Roger Bryce.
Mintlaw Community Council: Fiona Pringle, Joan Whyte, Myra McCredie.
Fyvie, Rothienorman and Monquhitter Community Council: Ian Gray, John MacKenzie.
Tarves Community Council: Colin Taylor, Ian Massie, Robert Davidson.
Turriff and District Community Council: Rose Logan.
Cluny, Midmar and Monymusk Community Council: Peter Fraser, Richard Fyffe.
Echt and Skene Community Council: Ian MacMaster.
Fintray Community Council: Richard Taylor.
Inverurie Community Council: Mike Hebenton.
Newmachar Community Council: Gordon Murray, Mike Taylor, Robert Loughbridge, Sandy Buchan.
Bennachie Community Council: Alan Simpson.
Crathes, Durmoak and Durris Community Council: David Morrish.
Mearns Community Council: Chris Rushbridge, Janette Anderson, Jim Stuart.
Royal Burgh of Inverbervie Community Council: Alick Smith.
Stonehaven and District Community Council: Ian Hunter, Raymond Christie.
Ballater and Crathie Community Council: Pat Downie.
Tap O’ Noth Community Council: David Grant, George Beverly, Paul Manning.
