 | Christmas message from the Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute | | Added: 21 Dec 2023 | Each festive season brings, along with hope and anticipation, an opportunity to reflect on the year just past.
A common theme for me each year, in this contemplation, is the tremendous community spirit that is always so evident and so characteristic of Argyll and Bute.
Regardless of the demands of the occasion or of circumstances, our local people and communities always do Argyll and Bute proud.
For this year in particular, there are some particular highlights which shine out. I think about the wonderful addition that Argyll and Bute made to the Coronation of King Charles III in this first full year of His reign, the first of the Carolean era, with Joy Dunlop of Connel representing our area so wonderfully with her contribution of traditional singing in Gaelic.
I think about the tremendous efforts made by communities across the whole area to ensure that Remembrance Day remains as vital and significant today as it ever has. A number of our towns and villages marked the centenary of their local war memorials, including Oban where people and businesses came together in a week-long series of Remembrance activities, joined by none other than HMS Penzance!
As well as these more public occasions, I know too that there are countless other acts of celebration, of service, of community spirit which take place all over Argyll and Bute. These are particularly important at this time of year, especially for those who may find this season challenging or difficult. These activities may be quieter, more personal, often unseen, but they are all part of the community spirit, the willingness to share, to make local life better, that is our hallmark.
That incredible spirit is what will carry Argyll and Bute into 2024 with resilience and hope. On behalf of all at the Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute, I hope that your Christmas is as wonderful as possible, and may I wish you all the very best for 2024.
Jane MacLeod
Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute
| | |  | Make sure Argyll and Bute’s volunteer groups get chance for recognition | | Added: 06 Jun 2023 | Is there an outstanding group in your local area that goes above and beyond to make a real difference to community life? Why not nominate them for the King’s Award for Voluntary Service?
This prestigious honour is considered to be the equivalent of an MBE and is the highest award available for voluntary groups.
The awards first started in 2002 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of the late Queen Elizabeth II. Their legacy continues today, providing a truly meaningful way to recognise the sterling efforts and activities of volunteer organisations all over the country.
Nominations are now open for the 2024 King’s Award for Voluntary Service and the Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod, is encouraging people to nominate outstanding voluntary groups in their communities.
She said: “Argyll and Bute has a tremendous track record in volunteering and community service. I know that in every community across the area there are local groups who work tirelessly to make local life better in countless ways. Life in Argyll and Bute would not be the same without the incredible work that they do.
“If you know of a local group who could be eligible for a King’s Award for Voluntary Service, please consider nominating them. They can’t and probably wouldn’t think to nominate themselves, so it’s up to the rest of us to make sure they have every chance of being recognised for the amazing contributions that they make to our communities.”
You can find out more about making a nomination at The King’s Award for Voluntary Service - official website (dcms.gov.uk) – the deadline is 15th September. Please let the Lord-Lieutenant know that you’re nominating an Argyll and Bute group at lord-lieutenant@argyll-bute.gov.uk | | |  | Hail and Farewell at Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute | | Added: 16 Jan 2023 | THE Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute has said ‘farewell’ to Robert Campbell-Preston, who retired as a Depute Lieutenant on 8th January 2023.
Mr Campbell-Preston, whose family own and run Inverawe Smokehouse in Taynuilt, was first appointed to the Lieutenancy in 2006.
Since then, he has supported three Lord-Lieutenants: Mr Kenneth MacKinnon, who was in post until 2011; Mr Patrick Stewart, from 2011 to 2020; and the current Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Jane MacLeod.
He has played a key role in a number of Royal visits to the Oban area over the years as well as assisting in various Jubilee celebrations for the late Queen Elizabeth II – including organising beacons at the top of mountains and handling the fairly complex logistics that accompany such tasks!
Lieutenancy representatives joined Mrs MacLeod, Mr Campbell-Preston and his wife Rosie for a farewell lunch and presentation of gifts in Oban on Saturday 14th January.
Mr Campbell-Preston said: “It has been my great honour to serve the Lieutenancy, Her Majesty The Queen and of course His Majesty King Charles III. I have considered it not only a privilege, but an absolute joy.”
He also had the opportunity to impart some tips to the newest Depute Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Dr Allison Davies, who received her official Commission from the Lord-Lieutenant on 14th January.
Dr Davies, of Connel, said: “I am honoured and delighted to take up the role of Depute Lieutenant. I look forward to serving His Majesty and the community over the coming months and years.”
The Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod, said: “Over the past 16 years, Robert Campbell-Preston has served the Lieutenancy with considerable dedication – not to mention kindness and good humour.
“We have been very grateful for his support and assistance, including support of a number of Royal visits over the years, where his expertise and warmth have proven invaluable. We will miss him, but we are glad that he and his wife Rosie will now have an opportunity to spend more time with the family and to enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.”
Mr Campbell-Preston is pictured with the Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Jane MacLeod, centre, and Dr Allison Davies, left. | | |  | New Year Honours success for Argyll and Bute | | Added: 02 Jan 2023 | TWO Argyll and Bute men are among the first to receive recognition from King Charles III in the New Year Honours 2023.
Stuart Liddell and James McEwan have each been awarded an MBE – Member of the Order of the British Empire, the third highest ranking Order of the British Empire award.
Mr Liddell, of Inveraray, receives his honour for services to piping and music education through his work with young people across Argyll and Bute. He is also Pipe Major of Inveraray and District Pipe Band, who have achieved a number of national and international championship titles under his leadership and who are current World Champions.
Mr McEwan, of Bruichladdich on Islay, has been recognised for services to the Scotch whisky industry and to the community on Islay. Renowned in the whisky world, he has employed his considerable skills in a number of famous Islay distilleries over a career spanning almost 60 years – working his way up from apprentice cooper to master distiller.
Commenting on Argyll and Bute’s New Year Honours success, the Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod, said: “I am delighted that Stuart Liddell and James McEwan have been recognised in this way.
“Both are absolute masters of these wonderful traditional Scottish skills. Stuart Liddell has brought Inveraray and Argyll and Bute to the world’s attention with his incredible musicianship, his guidance of his community’s pipe band, and his dedication to ensuring that future generations can learn to play and love Scottish traditional music. He played a very significant role in the Platinum Jubilee both locally and worldwide, having composed the special Diu Regnare pipe tune in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, which was played all over the Commonwealth.
“James McEwan is undoubtedly one of the world’s most outstanding experts on Islay’s magnificent whisky. He is steeped not only in knowledge and experience but in a tremendous passion for the craft of distilling, incredibly committed to ensuring that the golden nectar produced in his home community is of the highest standard. Testament to this is the fact that he continued to work in local distilleries as a master distiller for some considerable time after his retirement. He has played a very significant part in making Islay whisky the world-class product that it is today.
“Both awards are very richly deserved and my congratulations go to Stuart and James, along with my thanks for their wonderful contributions to Argyll and Bute’s rich cultural heritage.”
| | |  | A seasonal message from the Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute | | Added: 23 Dec 2022 | This year, as in years gone by, community spirit has prevailed across Argyll and Bute, in both times of challenge and of celebration.
We saw our communities joining together in the summer to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, celebrating a reign of 70 years with street parties, charity galas, tea dances and a chain of coastal beacons.
And we came together again just a few months later to mark, with sadness and respect, Her passing, and to recognise a lifetime of service.
Closer to home, our communities rally round, especially at this time of year. I am heartened to see the efforts of local people who, knowing that Christmas is not festive for everyone, are working together to bring a little light to those who may find life too dark. There are those who work to make sure others can enjoy the season - making our communities cheerful, colourful and bright, ready for celebration and full of pockets of comfort for those in need.
Community spirit is what makes Christmas in Argyll and Bute, and it is what carries us all year round. May you have a peaceful Christmas, and may you enter 2023 reminded of the hope that comes from communities like ours. | | |  | A festive first in Argyll and Bute | | Added: 20 Dec 2022 | The Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod, shared a festive first with Scotland’s second oldest woman today as she presented Mrs Ailsa Stewart with special greetings to mark her 108th birthday.
Mrs Stewart, who lives in Campbeltown, is listed online as Scotland’s second oldest woman – born on 21st December in 1914.
And she is the first person to receive, from the Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, a congratulatory card from His Majesty King Charles III.
Mrs MacLeod visited Mrs Stewart at her home in Campbeltown on Tuesday 20th December to present her with flowers on behalf of the Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute. She was joined by Provost Maurice Corry, representing Argyll and Bute Council, and Mrs Stewart’s son, Patrick Stewart CVO MBE – the previous Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute.
Speaking after her visit, the Lord-Lieutenant said: “It really was such a privilege to visit Mrs Stewart today to mark this remarkable birthday. She was born in 1914, the year that the First World War started, and has seen so much change over the course of her life.
“Mrs Stewart has spent many years of her life in service to the Kintyre community and I was delighted that, at the age of 108, she is the first person in Argyll and Bute to receive a birthday card and personal message from His Majesty the King.
“We promised each other at the end of our visit that we would meet again next year, at the same time and in the same place.
“I hope that she has a wonderful day with her family when she celebrates her 108th birthday on 21st December.”
The Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll is always happy to visit those celebrating centenary birthdays or significant occasions like the diamond (60th) wedding anniversary. For more information please contact lord-lieutenant@argyll-bute.gov.uk | | |  | PROCLAMATION OF ACCESSION IN ARGYLL AND BUTE | | Added: 11 Sep 2022 | The Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod, was in Lochgilphead today to hear the Proclamation of Accession.
Mrs MacLeod received the Proclamation from Pippa Milne, Chief Executive of Argyll and Bute Council. In attendance also were the Clerk to the Lieutenancy, Mr Douglas Hendry; Provost Maurice Corry; and Jenni Minto MSP. Local residents gathered on the town’s Front Green to witness the historic occasion.
Speaking after the Proclamation, the Lord-Lieutenant said:
"The past few days have been dominated by tremendous sadness at the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II; remembering Her reign, honouring Her and mourning Her have naturally been our focus.
"The Proclamation of Accession, though, reminds us about looking to the future, about the continuity of monarchy, about a sense of duty - and this last, of course, is utterly characteristic of the Queen and Her lifelong dedication to serving Her country.
"For Lord-Lieutenants, too, duty is of the utmost importance - duty to the Sovereign and to serving them as a diligent, committed representative in our own communities. It has been a tremendous privilege to serve Queen Elizabeth II. It will be my honour to continue to serve King Charles III as His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant in Argyll and Bute. Along with so many others across the nation, He has my commitment and my very best wishes as He embarks on His reign as the King of Great Britain." | | |  | TRIBUTE TO HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II | | Added: 08 Sep 2022 | Her Majesty The Queen has passed away today, 8th September 2022, at the age of 06
The Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod, said: “On behalf of the people of Argyll and Bute, I send my deepest condolences to the Royal Family. We join them in their sadness and sorrow.
"We grieve our Queen, but they also grieve a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother who must have been such a source of inspiration, love and guidance for them. An incredible matriarch as well as our Head of State; this is an extremely great loss not only to the nation, but one that will be felt very keenly and, indeed, personally by so very many people around the world.
“Her dedication and commitment in service to Her beloved country over the past 70 years is surely unmatched. She has led the United Kingdom with dignity and grace through times of war and peace, triumph and tribulation, sorrow and joy. Life in Great Britain without Her will be very, very difficult to come to terms with, indeed.
“As Her official representative in Argyll and Bute, I will work with the local authority to make arrangements for people who want to record their condolences on this tremendously sad occasion.
“Our thoughts are with the Queen’s family first and foremost.” | | |  | Former Lord-Lieutenant honoured with Freedom of Argyll | | Added: 21 Apr 2022 | Argyll and Bute Council has awarded the Freedom of Argyll and Bute to Patrick Stewart CVO, MBE, LLB, WS, FSA Scot in recognition of his service to the community.
Mr Stewart served the Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute for 33 years before retiring from his most role as Lord-Lieutenant in July 2020.
In addition to his Lieutenancy work, Mr Stewart has a long history of involvement with the voluntary sector in Argyll and Bute.
He served as secretary to the Clyde Fishermen’s Association (CFA) and was an Executive Committee member of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation. Mr Stewart also served as an expert advocate and representative for the fishing industry locally, nationally and internationally, a role for which he received an MBE in 2000.
In 1977, Mr Stewart received an invitation to join the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Trust for Argyll and Bute, remaining with the Trust and acting as its chair for 10 years. The Trust provided funding to young people wishing to pursue their academic and general development, and awarded grants to youth and community groups involved in environmental activities.
In 2020, he received a Companion of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) in The Queen’s New Year Honours – an award given at the personal behest of the Queen to mark dedicated personal service.
In recent years, Mr Stewart was Chair of the Argyll and Bute World War 1 Commemoration Steering Group, overseeing commemorative events across the area in each of the four centenary years. Locally in Kintyre, he has been involved in many other voluntary organisations, including the Campbeltown and Kintyre Development Trust and the Kintyre Round Table.
Mr Stewart’s most onerous voluntary duty arose from taking command of the Campbeltown Unit Sea Cadet Corps in 1971, during which time the unit received the trophy for the most efficient unit in the northern part of the UK. He joined its national governing body in 1983 and received the Captain’s Sea Cadet Medal for 50 years’ service training young people in maritime traditions.
Douglas Hendry, Executive Director at Argyll and Bute Council, said: “The Freedom of Argyll and Bute is the highest civic honour that the Council can bestow and is very rarely used.
“Mr Stewart received this accolade today, not only for his Lieutenancy duties, but for the dedicated service he has provided to the local community in various roles.
“Mr Stewart has played a pivotal part in the voluntary sector for a number of years, and has made a huge impact to the lives of many, many individuals, groups and organisations. He is a truly worthy recipient of this honour.”
Accepting the award, Mr Stewart said: “Thank you so much for this very rare honour. I am very deeply humbled by its granting to me. Who would have thought this could happen – certainly not me. I am eternally grateful for the granting of this honour and feel very privileged indeed.”
Mr Stewart also spoke of his long association with the council and paid tribute to his family, to his Lieutenancy colleagues and to others in the community with whom he has worked over the years, saying: “I really don’t deserve this award – you all do.”
Mr Stewart is pictured with his successor Mrs Jane MacLeod, the current Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, who was also present. | | |  | Bute welcomes new citizens - in person at last! | | Added: 13 Apr 2022 | The Isle of Bute has now seen its first in-person citizenship ceremony since lockdown, with members of the Kerescen family in Rothesay.
Kate Kerescen and son Laszlo received their citizenship on Monday 11th April, in a ceremony conducted by Argyll and Bute Council Registrar Sandra Cobain.
They are pictured with Mr Lazlo Kerescen (who received his citizenship online last November) and daughter Sara (born a UK citizen), along with Depute Lieutenant Stewart Shaw and local Councillor Liz McCabe, after the ceremony at Eaglesham House, Rothesay. | | |  | Branching out - planting in partnership | | Added: 06 Apr 2022 | The Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute was delighted to join her counterpart in Dunbartonshire recently for a Platinum Jubilee tree-planting ceremony at Lomond School in Helensburgh.
Mrs Jane MacLeod and the Lord-Lieutenant of Dunbartonshire, Mrs Jill Young MBE, met with pupils from the school’s Junior 5 class who had decided to plant a crab apple tree in the school grounds as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy programme.
After researching different types of trees alongside study of Jubilees and their significance, the children chose the crab apple for its associations with love and partnership - a very fitting tribute to mark the Queen’s bond with the country.
The tree was donated by local firm Gilmour and Aitken, and the new addition has been recorded on the nationwide Queen’s Green Canopy map. It is contributing to the programme’s overall aim of over a million trees planted across the country to mark the Platinum Jubilee and ensure that it has a lasting legacy with real benefits.
Speaking after the event on 31st March, the Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute said: “It was a privilege to visit Lomond School for their Queen’s Green Canopy tree-planting ceremony. The pupils had put a tremendous amount of thought into their planting project and have clearly enjoyed it very much.
“We have very close links with Helensburgh and the wider Dunbartonshire communities and I am very grateful to my colleague, the Lord-Lieutenant of Dunbartonshire, for joining with me in planting the tree. I hope to return the favour and welcome her to Argyll and Bute, and look forward to many more partnership opportunities in the future.”
Pictured are Mrs Jane MacLeod and Mrs Jill Young MBE, with the newly-planted crab apple tree, flanked by representatives from Gilmour and Aitken.
If you have a tree-planting project in Argyll and Bute which could contribute to the Queen’s Green Canopy, please contact the Lord-Lieutenant on lord-lieutenant@argyll-bute.gov.uk | | |  | Cadets receive awards from Lord-Lieutenant | | Added: 06 Apr 2022 | Local army cadets have now received their service awards and certificates from the Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, following the easing of restrictions on meeting in person.
Mrs Jane MacLeod attended the D (Argyll) Companies Army Proficiency Certificate training weekend at Lochgilphead Training Centre to make presentations to a number of adult volunteers and cadets.
CSM Robert Ducat of the Dunoon Detachment received the Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet certificate.
The Lord-Lieutenant’s Certificate for Meritorious Service was presented to Cadet Force Adult Volunteers 2nd Lt Allister Kenny of Campbeltown, and Lochgilphead’s Cadet Forces Warrant Company Sergeant Major (CSMI) Frank Frew.
Sergeant Major Scott Thomas, who is the Cadet Administrative Assistant and a permanent member of staff, received the Cadet Forces Warrant and Accumulated Campaign Service Medal 2011.
The Lord-Lieutenant said: “Both our local cadets and adult volunteers show tremendous dedication and commitment and I was delighted to acknowledge their hard work by presenting these awards and certificates. Congratulations and well done to all involved). | | |  | Christmas message from the Lord-Lieutenant | | Added: 20 Dec 2021 | When I wrote my Christmas message last year, I spoke of what an extraordinary year we had all dealt with. This year has been equally so; another year of challenges and changes right up to the very end, it seems, as we contemplate the possibility of more change over the festive season.
Last year, though, I also spoke of optimism. And it was right to do so - when I reflect on the past twelve months here in Argyll and Bute, there are many wonderful moments to recall.
We have been visited twice by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal. She joined us first in June to celebrate the completion of the renovation of Iona Abbey - a truly happy day in this historic and very scenic setting.
And she returned to Argyll in August, this time to Oban where she spent a full day, in glorious sunshine, with the local community. She enjoyed the tradition and colour of the Argyllshire Gathering for its 150th anniversary before visiting Oban High School to meet with our young people. Finally, she had an opportunity to meet with representatives from just some of the many voluntary and community groups that make such a difference to local life, in a celebration of community spirit.
This year has seen that Argyll and Bute community spirit recognised through HM The Queen’s Honours. Seven local residents received awards in the 2021 New Years Honours, and Kintyre-based Shopper Aide received the highest accolade available to volunteers, the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. This achievement was matched in the business world when Bute Island Foods received the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise.
It was difficult to imagine successes like these this time last year, but against the odds they helped to make 2021 a better year. That is what gives me hope for the year ahead. Argyll and Bute’s community spirit is well known and has proven, time and time again, that it will rise to meet any challenge. I have every faith that this will continue to be true in 2022.
May I take this opportunity to wish all of you a very happy Christmas, and a healthy, peaceful and prosperous New Year. | | |  | Lord-Lieutenant joins Vanguard crew for Remembrance | | Added: 12 Nov 2021 | The Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod, welcomed crew members of HMS Vanguard to MacLeod Construction in Lochgilphead on Remembrance Day, Thursday 11th November.
Warrant Officer and Mrs Stirling Way, along with other crew members, joined Mrs MacLeod in observing the two-minute silence in remembrance of those who gave their lives in conflict. The submariners were passing through Lochgilphead on their way to Islay, having forged strong links with the local community there after taking part in the national World War 1 Centenary commemorations in 2018. They will spend a few days on Islay and will strengthen that community bond by painting the community garage in Port Ellen.
HMS Vanguard is based at HM Naval Base Clyde, Faslane and is the tenth Royal Navy vessel to bear the name. | | |  | Castle celebration for Fiona | | Added: 29 Oct 2021 | Inveraray Castle was the setting for the presentation of the MBE to Mid Argyll youth services champion Fiona Kalache.
Fiona was awarded the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in HM The Queen’s New Year Honours List for 2020, in recognition of her services to local young people through her work as the manager of Mid Argyll Youth Development Services (MAYDS).
With pandemic restrictions now eased, it is possible to arrange presentation ceremonies again, and the Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Jane MacLeod, was delighted to present Fiona with her MBE at Inveraray Castle on Friday 29th October 2021, as family, friends and young people from MAYDS looked on.
Congratulations to Fiona on this well-deserved award.
If you know someone in your local community whose contribution to community life, like Fiona’s, deserves recognition, please contact the Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute on lord-lieutenant@argyll-bute.gov.uk – they will be happy to offer advice and support in navigating the Honours nomination process. | | |  | Highest business accolade for Bute Island Foods | | Added: 05 Oct 2021 | Bute Island Foods, the plant-based, dairy-free cheese maker based on the Isle of Bute in Scotland, was today (5th October, 2021) officially presented with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise, the UK’s highest accolade for business success, by Mrs Jane MacLeod, HM Lord-Lieutenant for Argyll and Bute, on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen.
The award, achieved for International Trade 2021, is not only recognition of the UK’s fastest growing plant-based, dairy-free cheese company’s excellence in producing the highest quality dairy, gluten and animal free vegan foods, but also in its phenomenal exports success.
Bute Island Foods is one of only 205 UK organisations to be recognised with a prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2021. The company, which employs 180 people, has been passionate about vegan foods for 30 years.
Based on the beautiful Isle of Bute, its state of the art dairy-free cheesemaking facility has seen the company grow and production increase by 400% in order to meet the growing demand for plant-based, dairy alternatives.
Its Sheese brand is the UK’s fastest growing plant-based, dairy-free cheese brand which earlier this year unveiled a brand new look and announced its biggest every marketing investment in the company’s 24 year history, as part of its drive to become the leading vegan and plant-based brand in the UK grocery market.
Now owned by Canadian dairy company Saputo, Bute Island Foods not only produces plant-based cheese for the UK market, its success is also growing internationally too, with its Sheese brand in huge demand across the globe in countries from Europe to North America and Oceania to Asia.
Bute Island Foods marketing director, Nigel White, said: “Today, we were honored to receive The Queen’s Award from Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Argyll and Bute, and delighted that Jane MacLeod was able come to our state of the art creamery on the Isle of Bute to present us with this prestigious award. It is the ultimate business accolade and to win particularly for our international trade success, given our small farmhouse kitchen table beginnings, is humbling and a huge recognition of the way Bute Island Foods is helping consumers across the world seek a more sustainable way of life by eating dairy-free.
“It is also a fantastic reflection on the exceptional team here at Bute Island who are passionate about good quality, plant-based food. We will display our award with much pride.”
Jane MacLeod, HM Lord Lieutenant for Argyll and Bute, said: "I was delighted to present Bute Island Foods with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise. The company produces excellent vegan food and importantly employs very many people on the island of Bute.
"At a time when we are acutely aware of the need to promote the growth and success of Argyll and Bute, it is a great honour to present a company, who employs and trains so many people, with a prestigious Queen’s Award."
Mrs MacLeod is pictured with Mark Crichton and Nigel White, Directors of Bute Island Foods, and Mr Stewart Shaw, Depute Lieutenant and Bute resident. | | |  | The warmest possible welcome! | | Added: 30 Aug 2021 | AS the morning of the 2021 Argyllshire Gathering dawned, all over Oban gazes turned to the skies. The past few days had been particularly wet, grey and dreary, and today of all days needed the sun to make an appearance. For it was a very special day; Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal was coming to the town, and Oban wanted to ensure she received the warmest – and driest - Highland welcome.
And welcome they did, both Her Royal Highness and the sun, on Thursday 26th August, to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Argyllshire Gathering as well as visits to Oban High School and to meet with local voluntary groups at Atlantis Leisure.
The first stop for The Princess Royal was Mossfield Park for the Gathering’s morning activities. Escorted by the Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod, the Princess was introduced to a number of Gathering members and supporters, including Mrs Dee Bradbury OBE, the first female President of Scottish Rugby Union. Mrs Bradbury has played a key part in developing youth rugby in the area, with girls’ and boys’ matches featuring on the Gathering programme. The captains of the winning youth teams were surprised and delighted to be presented with their trophies by Her Royal Highness.
Alongside the traditional cultural elements of piping and Highland dancing, celebrating Argyll’s heritage is a significant part of the Gathering each year. The annual Heritage Exhibition is always well attended and Her Royal Highness heard from a number of local organisations including Dunollie Castle Museum, The Scottish Association for Marine Science, Kilmartin Museum and many others.
The Princess also presented medals to piper Stuart Liddell of Inveraray, who won the 150th Argyllshire Gathering invitational solo piping competition, and to Pipe Major Iain Lowther, the composer of Dr Whittow’s Salute to the 150th Argyllshire Gathering in memory of the spouse of one of the Gathering Stewards, Helen Malcolm, and which was the winning composition in the Bagpipe Tune Competition.
After opportunities to meet with the Gathering’s Senior Stewards and enjoy some of the traditional athletics, dancing and musical performances, Her Royal Highness travelled to Oban High School where she was met by Head Teacher Peter Bain, Head Boy Angus Files and Head Girl Hannah Crowe.
After outlining the school’s history, Angus and Hannah accompanied the Princess to the art gallery for a show of pupils’ works, with musicians from the School of Traditional Music playing in the background.
The party then toured a range of other departments including the hairdressing/beauty suite, horticulture and poly tunnels, school garage and dance marquee. Particular highlights were hearing from staff and pupils about Oban High School’s work with Riding for the Disabled, receiving a lesson on playing the chanter from world champion piping tutor Angus McColl, and receiving the first ever jar of honey from the school beehives.
Before leaving the school, Her Royal Highness was presented with gifts, including specially engraved crystal glasses, by Hannah and Angus on behalf of the school community. The Princess told them she had thoroughly enjoyed her visit to the school and wished them well for the year ahead.
Speaking after Her Royal Highness had departed, Head Girl Hannah said: “It was an amazing opportunity to meet her today. She asked us lots of questions and really helped us to stay relaxed. It’s been a really exciting day.”
Head Boy Angus added: “It was a real privilege to be able to show the Princess around today. We have only been in our roles for two weeks, so it feels quite surreal! We really hope that she enjoyed her visit as much as we did.”
The next stop was Atlantis Leisure in the centre of Oban where a number of local voluntary groups were taking part in a community showcase.
Organisations in attendance included the Dove Centre (supporting people and families affected by cancer), North Argyll Carers Centre, Hope Kitchen, Adventure Oban, and Lorn Healthy Options.
The Princess spent time talking to organisers and volunteers with each of the groups present, hearing about the work that they do to support people who are dealing with a wide range of issues (including mental health, recovery from addiction, young carers, mobility issues and more) to improve overall wellbeing and live healthy, empowered lives.
Those Her Royal Highness spoke to paid tribute to her warmth and good sense of humour: “She showed such an interest in us and what we do, she was so friendly,” said one volunteer, while another added: “We were so grateful and amazed at how much time she spent with each of us, chatting and asking us lots of questions. We really enjoyed meeting her!”
The session at Atlantis Leisure brought The Princess Royal’s visit to Oban to a close. After her departure, the Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod, said: “Everyone involved with the visit has remarked on the genuine warmth shown by Her Royal Highness during her time in Oban.
“Her presence at the 150th Argyllshire Gathering, especially after the event could not take place last year, has been a real boost and made the day even more special.
“The school community are absolutely elated at her positive comments and interest in the pupils, their learning and their work.
“And our local voluntary groups, who work so hard to support people in the community, are encouraged greatly by her taking the time to find out more about what they do, and by her kind words.
“We are always very happy to give the warmest possible welcome to The Princess Royal when she visits Argyll and Bute, and we hope that she will be able to visit us again very soon.”
Photograph: Kevin McGlynn 2021 | | |  | Highest accolade for Kintyre volunteers | | Added: 02 Jun 2021 |
A Campbeltown-based charity is celebrating its tenth birthday with the highest honour that UK voluntary groups can ever achieve – the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Shopper-Aide is one of over 240 voluntary groups around the country which have been recognised for their outstanding service to their local community with this prestigious award.
Established in 2011, Shopper-Aide’s main aim is to support older people in the Kintyre area through a variety of ways including help at home, support for carers, home visits, transport for appointments and social activities.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod, was delighted to hear about Shopper-Aide’s success. She said: “The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is one of the highest accolades that voluntary groups can receive. I am delighted that Kintyre-based Shopper-Aide has been recognised in its tenth year of service to the community.
“Shopper-Aide is a lifeline for older people throughout Kintyre, not only because of practical assistance with shopping and at home, but because of the vital social contact its volunteers bring to people who may otherwise be isolated and alone.
“For almost 15 months we have come to realise the importance of social interaction. Everyone at Shopper-Aide should be very proud of what they have achieved and their Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is very richly deserved indeed.”
Depute Lieutenant for Kintyre, Mr Jim Martin, added: “I know of many people in Kintyre who say they simply couldn’t do without Shopper-Aide, particularly given the challenges of the last year. They often say that the volunteers deserve a medal – and now they have received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. This is a fantastic way to celebrate their first decade in service to the community. Thank you to everyone involved for making such a difference to the lives of local people.”
The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service scheme recognises the sterling work of volunteers across the country each year. Awards are the equivalent of an MBE and remain with successful groups for life.
Argyll and Bute is full of voluntary groups which are making a real difference to community life. The Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute is always keen to hear about any local organisations which you feel should be recognised, and to assist with the nomination process. Please contact the Lieutenancy on lord-lieutenant@argyll-bute.gov.uk if you know of a local group which might be eligible.
The scheme has launched a new website on 2nd June 2021 to coincide with the announcement of the 2021 QAVS winners. You can find out more about the scheme at Homepage - Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (dcms.gov.uk) | | |  | HRH The Duke of Edinburgh | | Added: 09 Apr 2021 | It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
His Royal Highness passed away peacefully on the morning of Friday 9th April at Windsor Castle.
The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod, said: “My thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty The Queen and her family as they mourn the passing of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh - a much-loved husband, father and grandfather as well as a man who dedicated so many decades of his life to public service. He will be sorely missed and I send my condolences and deepest sympathy to the Royal Family at this very sad time.”
The Provost of Argyll and Bute, Cllr David Kinniburgh, added: “It is with sadness that we learned about the death of the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip.
’The Duke of Edinburgh gave decades of service to Great Britain. He leaves a tremendous legacy through his Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme which has benefited the lives of so many young people. His loss will be felt by many. We send our sincere condolences to Her Majesty the Queen and his family at this sad time.”
Anyone who wishes to provide a tribute or message of condolence can do online at a dedicated web page here:
https://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/tributes-duke-edinburgh
His Royal Highness will have a Ceremonial Royal Funeral on Saturday 17th April at St George’s Chapel, Windsor. This will commence at 3pm with a national minute’s silence.
People may find more information about The Duke’s life at the Royal Family’s official website, www.royal.uk | | | | | Seven Argyll and Bute residents recognised in Queen’s New Year Honours List | | Added: 03 Jan 2021 | Seven Argyll and Bute residents have received awards in the 2021 Queen’s New Year Honours List.
Lord-Lieutenant Jane MacLeod said: "Argyll and Bute is full of people who contribute so much to all aspects of community life. I am delighted to see that their achievements have been recognised in the Queen’s New Year Honours List for 2021. My congratulations go to each of our seven recipients, along with my thanks for all that they do for others and for their communities."
This year’s New Year Honours recipients are:
OBE:
Donalda (Dee) Bradbury, Oban - lately President of Scottish Rugby Union - for services to Rugby Union
Anne Paterson, Minard - lately Chief Education Officer and Head of Education at Argyll and Bute Council - for services to education
MBE:
Christine Campbell, Oban - Culture Collection Manager at the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) - for services to marine science
Captain Barbara Campbell, Dunoon - Master, Jubilee Sailing Trust - for services to the vulnerable
Catherine Paterson, Lochgilphead - Founder, Dochas Fund - for services to health and social care
BEM:
Keith Rutherford - Postmaster, Isle of Colonsay - for services to the community
Beverley Scoullar, Rothesay - Chair, Lade Centre, Isle of Bute - for services to charity
The Lieutenancy is always keen to hear about people or groups who make significant contributions to community life or who go above and beyond in terms of voluntary service. If you know someone who you think should be nominated for an Honour in future, please do get in touch at lord-lieutenant@argyll-bute.gov.uk | | | | | Christmas message from the Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute | | Added: 14 Dec 2020 | What an extraordinary year it has been. There are so many words that we could use to describe 2020 but, reflecting as this year draws to a close, I think that ‘extraordinary’ is the one which sums it up best.
It most certainly describes the changes and challenges that we have all had to cope with, and which have affected every single aspect of our daily lives.
Those challenges prevail into the festive season, not least for those across Argyll and Bute who have lost loved ones. It is important to remember them, as a community, and I hope, as always, that anyone who is struggling this year, for any reason, is able to find some peace and comfort.
In such circumstances it is always important to hold onto hope. Despite all of the difficulties in this most unusual of years, hope has been shining through in Argyll and Bute, demonstrated by the extraordinary response of our communities to the pandemic. I am truly humbled and overwhelmed when I think of all the ways that people all over the area stepped up to provide support.
You provided food parcels for the vulnerable and took hot meals to the elderly. You made scrubs for key workers, and masks for those who needed them. You came out on the pavements to show your sympathy for the bereaved and who had to mourn alone due to restrictions. You went to the shops for those who had to shield. You found new ways to keep in touch with the lonely and struggling. You put rainbows in your window to encourage those at the front line. In a year where in many ways we can do so little, you have done so much more, and have gone above and beyond. You are extraordinary.
We are approaching 2021 with a little more optimism, following the news of a vaccine. I believe that here in Argyll and Bute, we can enter 2021 with positivity and pride, and a firm hope for the future. We have shown that as a community we can rise to the most challenging and unknown circumstances in a very extraordinary way. That will stand us in good stead for this coming New Year and beyond.
On behalf of the Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute, may I send everyone in Argyll and Bute my very best wishes for this coming season. | | | | | Doing things differently | | Added: 14 Dec 2020 | The Covid-19 pandemic has meant that many things need to be done differently – and that includes one of the Lieutenancy’s key duties of presenting honours to local people whose efforts have been recognised and rewarded.
Two Argyll and Bute residents, Agnes Johnstone and Alasdair MacDonald, were awarded the British Empire Medal in the 2019 Queen’s New Year Honours list, and were looking forward to receiving their honours with family and friends.
However, the pandemic intervened, with lockdown restrictions meaning that civic presentations all over the country must either be postponed or done in a different way.
Now, almost a year after their awards were confirmed, it has been possible to ensure that Agnes and Alasdair receive their medals – even if it is a little more low-key than normal.
Lord-Lieutenant Jane MacLeod presented Agnes with her BEM at Poppies Restaurant, by Oban on 25th November 2020. Agnes, who was Head of Mathematics at Oban High School, was recognised for her services to science, technology, engineering and mathematics education and to the local community.
Alasdair, who received his BEM for services to the community of Strathfillan in North Argyll, had his presentation on 11th November 2020, also in Poppies Restaurant. Alasdair was accompanied by his wife.
The Lord-Lieutenant hopes to re-present both British Empire Medals at a later date when restrictions are lifted and both recipients can invite their families and friends to an event to celebrate their prestigious award.
Other recipients plan to have their presentations when restrictions allow.
The Lord-Lieutenant said: “I’m glad that I was able to present Agnes and Alasdair with their awards, even if we had to do so in such a low-key way. All Honours are very well deserved and warrant recognition, particularly in such a challenging year.
“Like all areas affected by the pandemic, we have had to find ways of adapting and overcoming challenges. We are all, though, looking forward to being able to celebrate Argyll and Bute’s Honours recipients the way we normally would, together and in person, just as soon as we possibly can.”
Do you know a person, a group or a business in your community whose voluntary work or other activities deserves recognition? The Lieutenancy is always keen to hear about people or groups who might be considered for an Honours nomination. As well as the Queen’s New Year and Birthday Honours, there are other schemes, such as the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service or for Enterprise. Please contact the Lieutenancy on lord-lieutenant@argyll-bute.gov.uk for more information. | | | | | Honour for lochside lifesavers | | Added: 14 Dec 2020 | Two people who live beside Loch Etive have been recognised by the Royal Humane Society after their swift actions saved the life of a local woman.
Vice-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Andrew Campbell, was delighted to present Royal Humane Society certificates to Nick Bradbury and Dr Lindsay Vare, whose quick thinking meant that Nick’s wife, Dee, was brought back to life after a sudden and unexpected cardiac arrest..
Nick and Dee were at home near Loch Etive on June 18th this year when Dee suddenly collapsed forward, stopped breathing and had no pulse.
Nick started CPR and, when he heard his neighbours arriving home, called for help.
Dr Linsday Vare, who is not a medical doctor but is a first aider and another local resident went immediately to Bonawe to collect the local defibrillator, which they used to restart Dee’s heart and keep her alive and breathing until emergency services arrived.
Dee was taken to hospital and has since made a full recovery, thanks to the prompt first aid actions of her husband and neighbour.
The defibrillator used to save Dee is one of four placed around the Ardchattan area, following fundraising endeavours by Ardchattan Community Council and local people over the past five years.
Vice-Lieutenant Andrew Campbell said: “I was delighted to present Nick and Lindsay with certificates recognising their skillful application of first aid. This must have been a terrifying situation, particularly for Nick.
“Thanks are due also to all those in the local community who made such efforts to get defibrillators in place. Had these not been available, the outcome could have been very different.
“This is a great example of community spirit in action and the very real difference that it can make.”
The Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute is always interested to hear about local people whose actions or activities make a difference to community life. If you have any stories to share, or feel someone in your area deserves recognition, please contact the Lieutenancy at lord-lieutenant@argyll-bute.gov.uk | | | | | Argyll connections in 2020 Queen’s Birthday Honours | | Added: 15 Oct 2020 | TWO men with Argyll and Bute connections feature in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for 2020.
The awards were announced on 9th October, having been delayed from HM The Queen’s Birthday in June as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Mull veterinary surgeon Jimmy Wilson receives the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for services to veterinary practice and animal welfare on Mull. Mr Wilson has been a vet for almost 50 years and served the island of Mull for over 30 years. Held in high regard both by the local residents and farmers whose animals he has tended, he is also well respected in veterinary circles and is a past president of the Sheep Veterinary Society.
Former Bute resident and Rothesay Academy pupil Brian McIntyre has been awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the British Consulate-General in New York. Mr McIntyre, who also studied pianoforte at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, has worked for the Consulate-General for nearly 24 years, most recently as its IT Manager after spells in Registry Services.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod, said: “I’m delighted that Jimmy Wilson and Brian McIntyre have received awards in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours. Both men have given very many years of service and dedication to their chosen profession and it is very fitting that their commitment is honoured in this way. My congratulations go to both Jimmy and Brian.”
Mrs MacLeod added: “Argyll and Bute is full of people who go above and beyond in service to their communities or to the industries in which they work. The Lieutenancy is always keen to hear about local people who may deserve recognition, and to make honours submissions on their behalf.
“If there is someone in your local area who does tremendous work for the community and who you would like to see nominated for an award in future, please do get in touch with the Lieutenancy on lord-lieutenant@argyll-bute.gov.uk “ | | |  | Lord-Lieutenant for Argyll and Bute - appointment of Mrs Jane MacLeod | | Added: 14 Jul 2020 | ARGYLL and Bute will have its first female Lord-Lieutenant later this month with the appointment of Mrs Jane MacLeod, confirmed by Her Majesty the Queen on 14th July.
The current Lord-Lieutenant, Mr Patrick Stewart CVO MBE WS, is due to retire on 25th July after 33 years of service to the Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute and nine years as the Queen’s official representative to the area.
Mrs MacLeod was first appointed to the Lieutenancy in 2006 and is currently the Vice Lieutenant for Argyll and Bute. Over the past fourteen years she has been involved in all aspects of Lieutenancy business, including playing a key role in Royal visits, participating in the honours system and supporting Argyll and Bute’s twelve Depute Lieutenants.
The Lord-Lieutenant Patrick Stewart said: “I was most pleased to hear that Her Majesty the Queen had confirmed the appointment of Jane MacLeod to the role of Lord-Lieutenant. Jane has been a tremendous support to the Lieutenancy and to me over the past several years.
“She is passionate about seeing Argyll and Bute and its people thrive and has played a very active part in community life over the years. She will make a first-class Lord-Lieutenant and I wish her all the very best in this new role. I know she will bring to it her characteristic dedication and commitment.”
Mrs MacLeod added: “It is an immense privilege and honour to be appointed by Her Majesty to serve as Her Lord-Lieutenant in Argyll and Bute. I have very much enjoyed working with Patrick and the Lieutenancy over the years. I am absolutely delighted to be appointed and I am very much looking forward to embarking on this new challenge.”
Following Mr Stewart’s retiral on 25th July, Mrs MacLeod will become the Lord-Lieutenant for Argyll and Bute. The role involves acting as the official representative of Her Majesty the Queen in Argyll and Bute; assisting in the arrangements for Royal visits to the area; identifying and nominating people and community groups to various national honours and awards schemes; and a range of other ceremonial duties.
Mrs MacLeod is pictured left at a previous engagement in her current role of Vice Lieutenant.
More information about the Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute and its activities can be found at www.llab.org.uk
The official confirmation of Mrs MacLeod’s appointment is available at www.gov.uk/government/news/lord-lieutenant-for-argyll-and-bute-14-july-2020 | | |  | Deputy Lieutenant appointed for South Kintyre | | Added: 23 Jun 2020 | CAMPBELTOWN businessman Jim Martin has been appointed by the Lord-Lieutenant Patrick Stewart as a Deputy Lieutenant for the Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute.
The appointment has been sanctioned by Her Majesty the Queen and will take effect on 23rd June 2020.
Mr Martin will cover the South Kintyre area of the Lieutenancy. Well-known in the Kintyre area, from where the family business distributes agricultural supplies across Argyll and beyond, he has a long history of community service. He is currently a Director of Machrihanish Airbase Community Company and Machrihanish Development Company, which he chaired for six years, as well as the Chair of Kintyre and Argyll Events. Previously he was the Vice Chair of the Kintyre Initiative Working Group as well as serving as a Community Councillor in Campbeltown for 22 years.
He replaces Iona, Duchess of Argyll who has served as a Deputy Lieutenant for 17 years and who retired on 22nd June 2020.
Speaking as Mr Martin was appointed, the Lord-Lieutenant said: “It is my great pleasure to confirm Jim’s appointment as a Deputy Lieutenant for Argyll and Bute. I have known him for many years and know that he is dedicated to his community and to seeing Kintyre thrive. He is a great asset to the Lieutenancy which will enjoy working with him in the years ahead.
“I must also pay tribute to Iona, Duchess of Argyll, who has given so much of her time and effort to the community and to the Lieutenancy since she was appointed in 2003. I wish her all the very best in her retirement from Lieutenancy duties.”
Mr Martin added: “I am honoured to have been appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant. It will be a real privilege, as well as an interesting new challenge, to assist the Lord-Lieutenant, in discharging his duty to Her Majesty the Queen. I am looking forward to working with the Lord-Lieutenant and Vice Lieutenant as well as my fellow Deputy Lieutenants across the area.” | | |  | Lord-Lieutenant pays tribute to Argyll and Bute’s volunteers | | Added: 02 Jun 2020 | Every year, Volunteers Week provides an opportunity to recognise the very significant contribution to community life made by those who give freely of their time and talents to help others.
Given the challenges wrought on all of us by the coronavirus pandemic, in this year of all years it is more important than ever to acknowledge and show gratitude for the dedication of volunteers.
Across Argyll and Bute, thousands of people – as individuals and in groups – have stepped forward to do what they can to help in these highly unusual and completely unfamiliar circumstances.
In doing so, they have very often put their own safety and health aside, focusing instead on assisting those who have found themselves in need of support or, sometimes, in very considerable hardship.
The Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute has long taken an interest in the activities of Argyll and Bute’s volunteers. In 2020 we have all been particularly heartened and encouraged by the way in which our communities have responded without hesitation, despite the very considerable challenges that they too are facing.
We have heard stories of how existing local groups have adapted and changed what they do in order to contribute to the collective effort. There are also new groups who have come together specifically to respond to this crisis. Some volunteers are quietly working alone, doing what they can to act where they see a need. In all our towns, villages and islands, they are out delivering food parcels and orders, collecting prescriptions, telephone befriending, setting up online chats over a cup of tea, making protective equipment for frontline workers, volunteering at Food Banks, cooking and baking for those who need food – the list is endless.
To all of those who are volunteering in and for Argyll and Bute, on behalf of the Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute, I say: thank you. We see and hear what you are doing, and we are so grateful for all that you do. As communities it would be impossible to get through a crisis of this scale without your help. Thank you, most sincerely.
The Lieutenancy is always very keen to hear about volunteer activity across the area and if you know of a person or group in your community whose efforts should be recognised, please do contact me on patrick@llab.org.uk
Patrick Stewart CVO MBE WS
HM Lord-Lieutenant for Argyll and Bute
| | |  | Royal Garden Party 2020 Cancelled | | Added: 15 May 2020 | In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, the decision has been taken to cancel the Royal Garden Party due to take place at Holyrood House on 1st July 2020.
The Lord-Lieutenant’s Clerk is writing to all nominees to confirm this and to advise that despite the decision about this year’s event, there is some good news for those invited to attend.
Lord-Lieutenant Patrick Stewart said: "While the reason for this cancellation will be well understood, it will nevertheless be a disappointment.
"However, I am pleased to confirm that those nominated to attend this year’s Royal Garden Party will be automatically nominated for the Garden Party to be held, on about the same date, in 2021." | | |  | Safeguarding the future of historic Argyll country house | | Added: 29 Jan 2020 | On Thursday 16th January, the Lord-Lieutenant attended a Study Visit at Cour House, near Carradale. The session was hosted by the owners of the historic coastal property, in partnership with Benjamin Tindall Architects, and offered an opportunity for participants to explore future options for the estate. A tour of Cour House, inside and out, was followed by talks on its history and discussions on ideas and possibilities for its future.
Mr Stewart said: "Cour, erected early in the 20th century, in a prominent location overlooking Kilbrannan Sound, is of national, not to say international. architectural significance.
"Despite the best efforts of the owner its current state gives rise to considerable concern. I have known the house all my life so was pleased to be included, by the owner, in a group of eminent architectural historians, architects and other experts including Historic Environment Scotland who met there on 16th and 17th January to discuss its future.
"I shall do what I can to assist in rescuing this cultural gem for Argyll and Bute." | | | | | Personal recognition for Lord-Lieutenant’s service | | Added: 08 Jan 2020 | H M The Queen has appointed the Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Mr Patrick Stewart, as a Companion of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) in her New Year Honours List for 2020.
The CVO is awarded personally by Her Majesty to recognise distinguished personal service to the monarchy. It was first established in 1896 by Queen Victoria and is a dynastic order of knighthood – an honour conferred personally by a reigning sovereign and not as a result of ministerial influence or advice.
Receiving news of the award, the Lord-Lieutenant said: “I feel very proud and privileged to have received this honour from the Queen. I have enjoyed enormously my time as Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute.
“It is always a privilege and a real pleasure to be present at important events in the lives of local people and their local communities, and to be able to present messages of congratulations on behalf of the Queen. The work of the Lieutenancy in Argyll and Bute has all been very worthwhile – with thanks due also to those who have provided their support over the years, including my wife Mary Anne, Vice-Lieutenant Jane MacLeod and the Depute Lieutenants of Argyll and Bute.” | | | | | Argyll and Bute residents recognised in New Year Honours List | | Added: 08 Jan 2020 | Three Argyll and Bute residents have received awards in H M The Queen’s New Year Honours List for 2020.
Fiona Kalache of Lochgilphead receives the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for her services to young people in Mid Argyll through her work as the manager of Mid Argyll Youth Development Services.
Agnes (Nan) Johnstone, the Head of Mathematics at Oban High School, has been awarded the British Empire Medal for her services to STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) education and to the community in Oban.
Also receiving a British Empire Medal is Kenneth (Alasdair) MacDonald, for services to the local community in Strathfillan, North Argyll.
These awards are a way of providing suitable recognition of local people who serve their communities in all sorts of ways and congratulations go to all three Argyll and Bute recipients, with thanks for their dedication and commitment.
One of the roles of the Lieutenancy is to support people to make Honours nominations in recognition of significant community service, volunteering, charity work or similar. Please see our Honours web page here for more information about how the Lord-Lieutenant can assist you with this. | | | | | Congratulations to Mrs Ailsa Stewart on her 105th Birthday | | Added: 08 Jan 2020 | On 21st December 2019, the Lord-Lieutenant had a rather special duty to carry out. On behalf of H M The Queen, he presented his mother, Mrs Ailsa Stewart, with a card of congratulations to mark her 105th birthday – a very happy occasion for both and, it is understood, the first time that a Lord-Lieutenant has been able to perform such a duty for one of his or her own parents.
Mrs Stewart, who lives in Campbeltown, also enjoyed a celebration with family and friends to mark this very significant birthday.
If you have a relative who is approaching a centenary birthday - or beyond! - please check the Honours/Anniversaries section on the website or contact the Clerk on lord-lieutenant@argyll-bute.gov.uk to discuss arranging a presentation. | | |  | Mrs Jane Mayo BEM | | Added: 30 Oct 2019 | | On Wednesday 9 October the Lord-Lieutenant was delighted to invest Mrs Jane Mayo of Campbeltown, with her British Empire Medal. Jane was appointed BEM in recognition of the efforts made by the team of volunteers led by her to have the 1913 Campbeltown Picture House renovated. This required enormous dedication and included raising £3.5m. to accomplish the work. The investiture took place in the cinema which accounts for the rather dark nature of the accompanying photograph which shows Jane Mayo with the Lord-Lieutenant. | | |  | Welcoming Neil Matheson as Depute Lieutenant for Oban | | Added: 22 Oct 2019 | | The Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute held its Annual General Meeting in Inveraray on 16th October. The Lord-Lieutenant, Patrick Stewart, and his Deputes were delighted to welcome the appointment of Neil Matheson as the Depute Lieutenant for Oban and the surrounding area. Neil is well known as the proprietor of Mathesons Furniture in Oban, and is pictured being presented with his Commission by the Lord-Lieutenant. | | |  | Islay and Jura Schools: WW 100 Certificates | | Added: 29 Sep 2019 | | On Monday 23rd September a special ceremony was held in the Machrie Hotel Islay to recognise the outstanding accomplishments of Islay and Jura Schools in their support of Islay WW100 and, in particular, commemorations of the loss of SS Tuscania and HMS Otranto. The support so the production, to the highest quality of art, dance, singing, piping, historical research and pottery amongst others. Argyll & Bute Deputy Lieutenant for Islay Jura and Colonsay, Dr Grace Gibson presented certificates to each of the schools. The certificates had been awarded by WW 100 Scotland must signed by its chairman Revd. Professor Norman Drummond CBE and the Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll & Bute Patrick Stewart on whose behalf Dr Gibson resided at the ceremony. In the accompanying photograph, appearing with Council Officials and representatives of Islay WW100 is Dr Gibson second from the right in the back row and, first on the left in the front row Councillor Ann Horn, Argyll & Bute Council. | | |  | Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Perle hotels | | Added: 29 Sep 2019 | | The Queen’s Award for Enterprise is presented to companies which have made an outstanding contribution to various sectors of the UK economy including international trade. One of this year’s winners was well Hotels Ltd, a relatively new company which has created and expanded a suite of high quality hotels in the Highlands and Islands. The Lord-Lieutenant was delighted to be able to present the award for 2019 to Mrs Beth Rehman, brand director of the company in Oban on 17 September. The photograph shows the Lord-Lieutenant with, on his right Mrs Rehman along with other members of the company. | | |  | Mrs Winifred Muir BEM | | Added: 07 Aug 2019 | | On 28 June the Lord-Lieutenant presented the last of the four British Empire Medals to which residents of Argyll & Bute had been appointed in the New Year Honours of 2019. Once again he travelled to Rothesay where the recipient was Mrs Winifred Muir. Mrs Muir’s dedication to fundraising for the Cancer Research Campaign was recognised by her award. Her efforts over many years have resulted in many tens of thousands of pounds being raised locally. Not only were those efforts recognised by Her Majesty The Queen, but also by her chosen charity had made her an Honorary Fellow in 2016. Mrs Muir, who had recently been hospital,, was fortunately fit enough to attend her investiture in the historic Rothesay Castle. A good number of family, friends and colleagues were delighted to be present to see her receiving her Honour. Our picture shows Mrs Muir, with behind her from left to right, Stewart Shaw, a Depute Lieutenant of Argyll & Bute, Mr Muir and the Lord-Lieutenant. | | |  | World War I Certificates | | Added: 07 Aug 2019 | | The WW 100 Committee for Scotland in winding up its work, decided that it would be appropriate to have certificates presented to schools, which had performed outstandingly well in the commemorations of the First World War. the Lord-Lieutenant had nominated, after taking advice, a number of schools for Argyll & Bute. He was very pleased to get the news that a certificate had been awarded two Castlehill Primary School in Campbeltown for its outstanding work led by motivated teachers which produced two outstanding exhibitions, one in 2015 and the other at the end of 2018. Our photograph, courtesy the Campbeltown Courier, shows the Lord-Lieutenant presenting the Certificate to representatives of classes P6, P6/7 and P7 at a short ceremony on 26 June. | | |  | Alick Livingston BEM | | Added: 07 Aug 2019 | | A sunny 7 June took the Lord-Lieutenant on a pleasant ferry journey from Oban to Craignure and then by road to Tobermory where he invested Alick Livingston, with a British Empire Medal. The Medal was presented to Alec in recognition of his many years serving as a volunteer in the Coastguard. This might be suggested as quite sufficient commitment from an individual but Alec has and will continue to do a good deal more for the benefit of his community. He has worked for the Council for ever, keeping the streets of Tobermory pristinely clean. In his own time and I believe that his own expense, He maintains the Tobermory clock perfect working order. A good number of local people and Council officials comprised an appreciative audience to witness his presentation. Our photograph, courtesy of the Oban Times shows Mr Livingstone with his BEM Certificate flanked by Mrs Flora Corbett, a Deputy Lieutenant of Argyll & Bute and the Lord-Lieutenant. | | |  | Mull of Kintyre: 25th Anniversary of the RAF Chinook Disaster | | Added: 07 Aug 2019 | | June 2 was the 25th anniversary of the appalling loss of life when an RAF Chinook helicopter flying from Northern Ireland to Scotland crashed, in very poor flying conditions into the Mull of Kintyre just above the lighthouse. In due course a cairn bearing the names of those who were lost was erected. After an earlier service, in Southend Parish Church, a number of people including some relatives, representatives of the emergency services and local people gathered to witness a short but touching memorial service. The Lord-Lieutenant was asked to the wreath on behalf of the parishioners of Southend which he was humbled to do. Our photograph show him, on the left, with Brendan O’Hara MP for Argyll & Bute on the right. | | |  | Councillor Donald McMillan BEM | | Added: 07 Aug 2019 | | No one who has lived for more than a day in Mid Argyll can be unaware of Councillor Donald MacMillan. In his nineties but still fit and spry, Councillor MacMillan has assiduously and effectively represented his constituents for more than 40 years. This service was recognised in his award of a British Empire Medal with which he was invested by the Lord-Lieutenant at a ceremony in the Council Headquarters at Kilmory Lochgilphead. A large and appreciative audience of family and friends heard Donnie giving thanks to them for all their support. This is typical of his self-effacing attitude but we all knew that his success as a representative was as much down to his commitment and interest is anything else. the photograph shows from left to right, Jane MacLeod, Vice Lieutenant of Argyll & Bute, Provost Len Scoullar, Mrs MacMillan, the Lord-Lieutenant,, Patrick Stewart and Mrs Stewart. | | |  | Mrs Anne Spiers BEM | | Added: 07 Aug 2019 | On 7 May the Lord-Lieutenant travelled to Bute to invest Rothesay resident Mrs Anne Spiers with a British Empire Medal. Mrs Spears was nominated for this bylocals who have been impressed over many years by her enthusiasm and diligence, not just in her daytime job of schoolteacher, but for her commitment to the Bute Museum. Appropriately, the investiture took place in the museum. This allowed the Lord-Lieutenant to spend some time admiring the standard of the exhibits but also the professional approach to mounting, legend and display. To appreciate fully the result of this dedication and hard work, a visit to the museum is much recommended.
Our photograph shows a delighted Mrs Spiers, with her BEM and on her right Mr Stewart Shaw, a Depute Lieutenant of Argyll & Bute with his wife Fiona and on her left the Lord-Lieutenant. | | |  | VIC 32 and the Crinan Canal | | Added: 07 Aug 2019 | | In 2018 the Lord-Lieutenant had invested Mr Nick Walker, proprietor of the well-known Puffer VIC 32, with a British Empire Medal. At that ceremony Mr Walker offered a passage through the Crinan Canal. This was quickly accepted. The Lord-Lieutenant and his wife joined after breakfast and spent an uneventful but highly interesting day transiting the canal. An experience not to be missed! | | |  | Beating Retreat: Edinburgh Castle | | Added: 07 Aug 2019 | On a rather wet Sunday afternoon, 27 April, the Lord-Lieutenant and his wife were amongst the invited guests to witness a beating retreat ceremony performed by cadets from the Sea Cadet Corps, Army Cadet Force, and Air Training Corps on the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle. Despite the rather poor conditions, the young people displayed their all round first class talent delivering both pipe and military band music, to a very high standard.
It was a helpful reminder that these youth organisations teach not only the skills required in the relevant adult service but also many other accomplishments including music. | | |  | Argyll & Bute World War I Steering Group | | Added: 05 Mar 2019 | From 2013 a Group consisting of Councillors, interested parties and Council Officials has worked in partnership to deliver events commemorating the sacrifice of the people of Argyll & Bute during the First World War. Commemorative events were staged in Oban in 2014, Campbeltown, in 2015, Helensburgh in 2016 Dunoon in 2017and finally in Islay in 2018.
At the same time events were held to commemorate the award of the highest honour for gallantry,the Victoria Cross to 4 Army Officers, who had their roots in the present day Argyll & Bute.
The last meeting of the Steering Group ook place in Kilmory Castle on 22 February 2019. Our photograph shows the Lord-Lieutenant who had chaired the Group since 2014 surrounded by most of the membersof the Group including Councillors as well as a good number of the members of the Council staff who are indispensable to the managing of the group’s projects.. | | |  | Mr and Mrs James Allan 70th Wedding Anniversary | | Added: 05 Mar 2019 | | On Sunday 10 February, the Lord-Lieutenant was delighted to be asked to present Mr James (Stevie) Allan and Mrs Florence Allan with a card from HM The Queen congratulating them on their Platinum Wedding Anniversary. It is very rare achievement wwhich was made all the better by both husband and wife being in very good form.. The presentation was made at a lunch party organised by the family at The Argyll Hotel, Bellochantuy. Our photograph shows the happy couple been presented with their card by the Lord-Lieutenant. | | |  | Citizenship The Dgany Family | | Added: 08 Feb 2019 | | A citizenship Ceremony was held, on 3 December 2018, for four members of the same family at Castle House, Dunoon. The Dgany family, father, mother and two eldest children (7 & 9) were all originally born in Israel. The family have younger members, but they were born in the UK. Picture shows (L-R) DL, Efrat (Mother), Yarden (7), Eyal (Father) and Yair (9), Councillor Jim Anderson and Registrar Margaret Brewer. | | |  | Citizenship Mr Gerry Pursley | | Added: 08 Feb 2019 | | A Citizenship Ceremony was held in Castle House, Dunoon, on 22 November 2018, for an ex US Navy Serviceman who served at the Holy Loch and has made his life here in Dunoon and been part of the community for many many years, Mr Gerry Pursley. Gerry was welcomed by the DL Lt Col Peter McDill and Councillor Gordon Blair on what was Thanksgiving Day. He was accompanied by some of his immediate family, and members of Cowal Combined Services Club also attended to show their support. | | |  | Armistice Day 2018 Dunoon | | Added: 14 Dec 2018 | | Lt Col Peter McDill DL attended Dunoon Community Council’s Beacon lighting ceremony on Castle Hill Dunoon as part of the UK national celebrations – ‘The Battles Over’. Col McDill made a short speech about ‘The lights coming back on over Europe’ and lit the beacon. The ceremony was attended by aabout 50 people amongst whom there were many young people. | | |  | Argyll & Bute Council Excellence Awards | | Added: 07 Dec 2018 | Argyll & Bute Council awards annually to teams and individuals drawn from the Council awards for outstanding work in the previous year. These awards are given in three tiers, bronze silver and gold. On 23 November 2018 the award ceremony took place in Dunoon. The Lord-Lieutenant was delighted that the World War I Steering Group, a partnership between the Council, and specifically its Department of Governance and Law, along with nominated Councillors and interested individuals and organisations, chaired by him, won two awards. The first was the Gold Award forStrong and Sustainable Communities, and the second a special award from Provost Len Scoullar for the group’s achievements in the period 2014 – 2018.
Our photograph shows the Director of Governance and Law, Charles Reppke and an apparently grumpy Lord-Lieutenant. This assumption is entirely untrue as not only was he delighted to be present but more so to be asked to receive jointly the awards. | | |  | Armistice Day 11 November 2018 | | Added: 14 Nov 2018 | Following the Remembrance Day,, and subsequent Church Service in Rothesay, the Lord-Lieutenant returned to Campbeltown where at 1900 at Kilmashenachan Farm Southend courtesy of the owner Mr Sandy Ronald, the Lieutenancy bonfire, replicated all the Lieutenancies of the United Kingdom, constructed by RDS Forestry of Tarbert and Stirling with pallets by AM Transport and CS Wind Tyres was set alight.
The intention was that the fire would be seen in the Lieutenancies of Ayrshire, Wigtownshire and Co Antrim. The night was clear enough for that but no reports that it was have been received!
Our photograph shows the magnificent bonfire with silhouetted in its flames the Lord-Lieutenant and his wife Mary Anne. Thanks to all who made this possible. | | |  | Armistice Day 11 November 2018 | | Added: 14 Nov 2018 | On Armistice Day, the Lord-Lieutenant took the opportunity to attend the Remembrance Service in Rothesay along with the Provost of Argyll & Bute, Mr Len Scoullar. The parade was well organised and drew a large crowd of participants and onlookers. This was in spite of of the heavy rain which lashed down throughout the ceremony.
Our photograph, taken by Michael Russell MSP, shows a very wet Lord-Lieutenant along with Provost Len Scoullar, at the Rothesay War Memorial.
| | |  | The Highland Division and Bedford | | Added: 09 Nov 2018 | On Sunday 9 November 2018 the Lord-Lieutenant was the guest of Mrs Helen Nellis Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire at a ceremony in Bedford to mark the connection between the Highland Division and Bedford. About 22,000 Territorials passed through Bedford in 1914 and 1915 for training before deployment overseas. The people of Bedford to these young men, many of whom had never left home before, to their hearts. A strong bond was formed which is marked to this day on the Sunday before Remembrance Sunday.
An impressive parade was led by pipers from both Bedford and Peterborough followed by Royal British Legion standard bearers, civic representatives of Town and County aalong with distinguished guests including the Member of Parliament, with youth being represented by Sea and Army cadets.
The two Lord-Lieutenants, laid wreaths, unveiled a substantial memorial plaque and combined to plant a Scots pine, in memory of those from the HD who lay in the cemetery and of the association with Bedford.
This was all together a most memorable occasion. The Lord-Lieutenant is immensely grateful to the Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire for inviting him to the ceremony and for making him such a central part of it.
Our picture shows Mrs Helen Nellis and Patrick Stewart, flanked by two of the Bedfordshire Lord-Lieutenants cadets, following the unveiling of the memorial plaque.
| | |  | Bowman 60th Wedding Anniversary | | Added: 09 Nov 2018 | | On Saturday 3 November 2018 Peter McDill DL presented a card from Her Majesty, congratulating Bill & Grace Bowman on their 60th Wedding Anniversary at a large family gathering held on Saturday in The Osborne in Innellan. Bill & Grace were married on Saturday 01 Nov 58 in Beath, Fife. | | |  | Citizenship Ms Carol Lee Stirling | | Added: 09 Nov 2018 | On 31October a Citizenship Ceremony took place in the Castle House Dunoon for Ms Carol Lee Stirling. Carol has lived in Dunoon for almost 40 years and has become, very much, a part of the community. She was welcomed as a citizen by Lt Col Peter McDill Depute Lieutenant and Councillor Audrey Forrest at the ceremony.
Our photograph shows Carol being welcomed by Peter McDill | | |  | Argyll & Bute Lieutenancy Annual Meeting | | Added: 09 Nov 2018 | | The Lieutenancy met on Wednesday 24 October in Inveraray, to review the previous year and look forward to the next. During the meeting two Depute Lieutenants were presented with their commissions. Mrs Flora Corbett represents Mull and Iona while Lieutenant Colonel Peter McDill will look after the Lieutenancy interests in East Cowal and Dunoon. our photograph shows Flora Corbett receiving her Commission. | | |  | The Loss of HMS Otranto | | Added: 09 Nov 2018 | On Saturday 6 October a large body of people collected at the CWGC war grave cemetery at Kilchoman. The event, meticulously organised by WW 100 Islay under its chair, Jenni Minto, commemorated the centenary of the loss of HMS Otranto, which was transportinga large numberof American soldiers to the front in France.To find out more about the tragedy please follow the link below.
Present the ceremony were a large number of local people whose ancestors had been involved in the rescue of the survivors and the burying of the dead. There were also descendants of crew members and soldiers. The former included Nick Hide, grandson of Captain Eric Davidson, the Master of the Otranto.
Also present, were Lord Robertson of Port Ellen, whose maternal grandfather was the senior policeman n the island at the time and who kept a complete record of the tragic events, together with Captain Evans Hoyt a Senior Captain of Carnival plc, the successor to the Orient Line, the owners of the Otranto.
Thanks must also go to the owners of Kilchoman Distillery who provided facilities for the reception which was open to all who attended.
This brought to a conclusion the magnificent efforts of the Islay community in marking, during 2018, the the loss of two troopships, into separate ceremonies and a joint one in the presence of The Princess Royal and the winning of a Victoria Cross by Lieutenant David Macintyre of Portnahaven.
our photograph, kindly provided by Ben Shakespeare of Islay, shows the participants making their way to the Cemetery. Behind the Minister, Valerie Watson can be seen from the left, the Lord-Lieutenant and Mrs Stewart, Captain Hoyt and Lord Robertson of Port Ellen..
Website: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Otranto | | |  | Mrs Karen McCurry BEM | | Added: 09 Nov 2018 | The Lord-Lieutenant found himself once again in Lochgilphead for a BEM investiture. This time being honoured for her incredible and all-consuming work for the Mid-Argyll MS Centre, was Mrs Karen McCurry. Her recognition was witnessed by a large number of family, friends and supporters who were delighted to see her receiving her medal.
The accompanying photograph shows the Lord-Lieutenant with on his left, Karen McCurry and on his right theVice Lieutenant of Argyll & Bute, Mrs Jane MacLeod. | | |  | Mr Nicholas Walker BEM | | Added: 09 Nov 2018 | On Wednesday 29 August, the Lord-Lieutenant was delighted to invest Mr Nicholas Walker with the British Empire Medal with which he had been honoured by HM The Queen. Mr Walker had earned his recognition for his immense hard work in rescuing the puffer VIC 32, completely refitting her and putting her into service as a small charter vessel in Argyll waters.
Our picture, courtesy of the Argyllshire Advertiser, shows Mr Walker with the Lord-Lieutenant shortly after the investiture. | | |  | Laying Up Of Regimental Colours | | Added: 09 Nov 2018 | On 26 August 2018 the Parish Church at Inveraray was the scene of a unique event for Argyll & Bute. The 1st Battalion Scots Guards, having been presented with new colours by Her Majesty The Queen, laid up the old colours during a fitting service. This was attended not only by parishioners but also former members of the regiment and ACF units from Argyll & Bute.
Our picture, courtesy of the Argyllshire Advertiser, shows the Lord-Lieutenant with the Minister Rev. Dr. Roderick Campbell, Brigadier Harry Nickerson, the Honorary Lieutenant Colonel of the Regiment, the Colour Party representatives of the British Legion and Army Cadets. | | |  | Very Rev Andrew Swift DL | | Added: 31 Aug 2018 | On 25 August 2018 one of the Deputy Lieutenants of Argyll & Bute, Andrew Swift, Dean of the Diocese of Argyll and the Isles in the Episcopal Church of Scotland was consecrated Bishop of Brechin in St Paul’s Cathedral Dundee.
The consecration was contained within a magnificent and happy service with representatives from Argyll & Bute, including the Lord-Lieutenant participating.
We hope that Bishop Andrew has a long and happy sojourn in his diocese although we would not be surprised to hear of his further preferment, in due course.
The Lieutenancy of Argyll & Bute will be the poorer as a result of his ’emigration’. For his short time in post, Andrew worked hard to ensure that in his area the Lieutenancy maintained a high profile and was seen to be supporting charities and the third sector.
| | |  | Temp. Lieutenant David Lowe Macintyre VC CB | | Added: 31 Aug 2018 | On 24 August 2018, family Islay residents and representatives from the Council, including the Provost, the Army and Veterans’ Associations attended at Portnahaven to commemorate the award of the Victoria Cross, the highest British award for gallantry in the field, gained by David Macintyre, a son of the Manse, born in the village, for his courageous actions near Arras during two days of attacks on the massive fortifications of the Hindenburg Line.
The Lord-Lieutenant dedicated a memorial stone dedicated to Lt Macintyre and read a short history of the action. Lt Col Mark Haber USAF (Ret’d), married to a granddaughter, read the citation for the VC while David Campbell a grandson gave an interesting resume of his grandfather’s life.
Our photograph shows the assemblywith the Lord-Lieutenant reading the history of the action and standing close to him representatives of the Highland Light Infantry Association with which regiment Lt Macintyre was serving at the time of the action. | | |  | Miss Sine MacVicar MBE | | Added: 16 Jul 2018 | On 4 July 2018 Miss Sine MacVicar lately Head Teacher of Dunbeg Primary School, Oban,, Argyll attended an investiture at Holyrood Palace, in Edinburgh,, to bbe invested by Her Majesty The Queen as a Member of the Order of the British Empire. Miss McVicar wwas selected as an MBE for her outstanding contribution, not just to her School, where she spent 44 years,, of which 24 as Head Teacher but also to her community in all sorts of capacities.
Our photograph shows Miss McVicar outside Holyrood displaying,, proudly, her MBE. | | |  | Citizenship Ceremony Dunoon | | Added: 15 May 2018 | | On Thursday 10 May, Mrs Yuqing (Carol) Zhang was admitted to British citizenship at ceremony in Dunoon. The Very Reverend Andrew Swift DL represented the Lord-Lieutenant and is seen on the left of the photograph with Carol’s husband and Councillor Bobby Good representing Argyll & Bute Council. | | |  | Islay Centenary Commemorations | | Added: 15 May 2018 | On Friday 4 May 2018 a commemoration was held on the island of Islay to remember the deaths of 700 American soldiers and Royal and Merchant Navy sailors, who perished as a result of the tragic losses of the troop ships SS Tuscania and HMS Otranto in 1918. The events were staged under the aegis of WW100 Scotland at a national level and WW100 Islay which promoted an incredible local cultural contribution.
HRH The Princess Royal, with her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence as vice chairman of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, who were received by the Lord-Lieutenant Mr Patrick Stewart, attended, taking a close interest in and showing appreciation of, the ceremonies.
The main event was a dramatic and tender service at Port Ellen War Memorial at which The Princess Royal laid a wreath in memory of the fallen, not just of the maritime tragedies, but also of the Islay men who did not return.
Later She and her husband visited Kilnaughton cemetery and the American Monument at the Mull of Oa. The Princess Royal later visited a Woodland Trust First World War commemorative planting on Dunlossit estate, while Sir Tim visited Kilchoman Military Cemetery.
The photograph, courtesy of the Campbeltown Courier showsHRH laying the wreath at Port Ellen. The link provided will take you to the BBC website which gives further historical background.
Website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p065jf88 | | |  | SS Tuscania Memorial Service Islay | | Added: 13 Feb 2018 | On Monday 5 February 2018, a large crowd assembled at the American Memorial on the Mull of Oa Islay, and later, and even larger assembly convened at the Kilnaughton Cemetery to mark the centenary of the loss of SS Tuscania, to a U-boat torpedo. The ship had been carrying US troops to the European theatre of war. Many of the crew and seamen were lost. Those washed up on Islay were buried at Kilnaughton, while the survivors were taken in. All this was done by islanders who were completely unprepared for this task. The war had come to them. The photograph shows the commemoration at Kilnaughton. The loss of the Tuscania and the later loss of the Otranto will be commemorated in May. Please see the Events Page
Website: http://https://ww100islay.com/ | | |  | Citizenship Ceremony Campbeltown | | Added: 13 Feb 2018 | | On 30 January 2018 the Lord-Lieutenant attended a citizenship ceremony in the Burnet Building Campbeltown when Kacper Kasperowicz of Tayinloan and Shamsul Islam of Tarbert were welcomed into British citizenship. Our photograph shows Mr Shamsul Islam with Councillor Anne Horn, representing Argyll & Bute Council and the Lord-Lieutenant after the ceremony. | | |  | Rev Dr Roderick MacLeod MBE | | Added: 12 Jan 2018 | | Dr MacLeod was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire in the 2017 Birthday Honours. This was in recognition of his many years of service to the Church and Community in Argyll, not least of which services was and remains to the Gaelic language. His contribution has been enormous and was widely recognised. Reflecting his modest demeanour, he asked that he be invested with his MBE in Argyll before his family and friends. Her Majesty The Queen was pleased to accede to this request. The investiture took place on 22 December 2017 in the Council Offices, Lochgilphead. Our picture, courtesy of the Argyllshire Advertiser, shows Dr MacLeod being invested with his MBE by the Lord-Lieutenant, Patrick Stewart. | | | | | British Empire Medals | | Added: 11 Dec 2017 | On 20th and 30th November respectively, Mrs Anne Masino of Furnace and Mr David Meldrum of Rothesay were invested with British Empire Medals awarded in the 2017 Birthday Honours.
Mrs Masino gathered her award for her outstanding work in organising foreign expeditions for Scouts and generally for her outstanding support of the Scouting Movement.
Mr Meldrum received his award for his lifetime support as a player, manager and official of the Rothesay Brandanes Football club. The turnout of club officials and members at his investiture in Rothesay Castle be testament to the outstanding contribution he has made. | | |  | Captain GHT Paton VC MC | | Added: 11 Dec 2017 | | On Friday 1 December 2017 a moving ceremony took place at Innellan to commemorate the centenary of the action, in which local man George HT Paton MC, 4th Battalion Grenadier Guards was awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry. Our picture shows, from the back and facing, the Lord-Lieutenant, the Provost of Argyll & Bute, the Very Rev Andrew Swift DL and Lord Strange, representing the Regiment. From the right, facing the commemorative paving stone unveiled in honour of Capt Paton are his great nephews Andrew and David Rennie with David’s son and daughter, Jack and Ella, who laid a wreath in memory of their great great uncle. On the far right are three musicians of the Regiment who travelled from London to play the Last Post and a poignant slow march. Andrew and David’s mother, Lady Rennie, was also present but is not seen in the photograph. | | |  | Mrs Margaret Mather BEM | | Added: 14 Nov 2017 | On Friday 27 October Mrs Margaret Mather was invested with her British Empire Medal by the Lord-Lieutenant, Patrick Stewart, at a ceremony in Inveraray Castle, with kind permission of His Grace The Duke of Argyll. Apart from the 33 years devoted by Mrs Mather to working for Argyll Estates, she has been continuously involved in voluntary service, including being a very successful Secretary of the Inveraray Highland Games.
Our photograph, courtesy of the Argyllshire Advertiser shows the Lord-Lieutenant, accompanied by one of his Deputes, Iona Duchess of Argyll with Mrs Margaret Mather BEM and members of her family. | | |  | Argyll & Bute has a new Vice Lieutenant | | Added: 02 Nov 2017 | | The Lieutenancy of Argyll & Bute held its annual meeting in Inveraray on 25 October. By rotation, Mrs Jane MacLeod assumed the position of Vice Lieutenant in succession to Mr Jamie Mellor. Our picture shows Mrs MacLeod receiving her Commission from the Lord Lieutenant Patrick Stewart. | | |  | World War I Commemoration: Dunoon October 2017 | | Added: 02 Nov 2017 | During the first week of October a most successful WWI commemoration event was mounted in Dunoon, under the auspices of the Argyll & Bute WW I Steering Group, led by Ann Galliard and Eleanor McKay, with the assistance of other enthusiastic volunteers. A week-long high quality exhibition recording aspects of the County’s contribution to the war effort, incorporated a two-day conference of the highest standard on WW I topics and finished off with a military parade and service. Our picture shows the exhibition being opened by Lord Robertson of Port Ellen.
| | |  | Centenary: Florence Lee | | Added: 14 Aug 2017 | Stewart Shaw, Deputy Lieutenant for the Isle of Bute, visited Florence Lee on her 100th birthday, which took place on 30 July.
Our photograph shows them having a good chat while admiring the card from Her Majesty The Queen. | | |  | New Sheriff at Oban and Campbeltown | | Added: 14 Aug 2017 | The Lord-Lieutenant, Patrick Stewart, attended the installation of Sheriff Patrick Hughes at both the Sheriff Courts, over which he will preside. They are at Oban and Campbeltown.
The photograph shows the Lord-Lieutenant, with Sheriff Principal Duncan Murray and, in the centre, Sheriff Hughes at the Campbeltown installation on 25 July.
Photograph courtesy of the Campbeltown Courier | | |  | Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadets | | Added: 27 Jul 2017 | On Wednesday 31 May, a ceremony took place at the ACF Centre Campbeltown when the Lord-Lieutenant presented certificates to his Lord-Lieutenant Cadets for 2017 – 2018.
The cadets are Able Cadet Suen Yee Walker and Cadet Sergeant Cameron Kenny of the Campbeltown Sea Cadet and Army Cadet Units, respectively.
The cadets are chosen from all the Cadet contingents in Argyll & Bute for their achievements within the units, their bearing and self-confidence. Either or both of them will accompany the Lord-Lieutenant to events during their year of appointment.
At the same event the opportunity was taken to award Cameron’s father Under Officer Alistair Kenny, with his Cadet Forces Medal, signifying 12 years service to the ACF.
The photograph is courtesy of the Campbeltown Courier.
| | |  | 23 May 2017. HRH The Princess Royal visits Argyll | | Added: 27 Jul 2017 | On Tuesday 23 May HRH The Princess Royal carried out the visit that unfortunately had to be cancelled because of her illness in September last year.
In a very busy day she visited four locations in Argyll. She flew from Holyrood, where she was serving as The Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. Her first call was on Otter Ferry Sea Farms at Largiemore. She then called at Portavadie to view the swimming pool, leisure centre and spa, the newest addition to the superb marina and holiday centre.
Traversing, Loch Fyne in a helicopter of the Royal Flight, the next port of call for Her Royal Highness was the newly established facilities for yachtsmen and the general public at Ardrishaig known as The Yot Spot. Being a yachtswoman herself, she took a close interest in the services provided to yachtsmen traversing the Crinan Canal.
HRH finished her day in Argyll visiting three different activities at Riverside Lochgilphead. The first was the nursery school Riverside Rascals, with the only disappointment for the youngsters meeting a Princess was the absence of a crown. The next call was on the Mid Argyll Swimming Pool where a very effective demonstration of skills was laid on. Princess Anne also presented medals to competition winners.
Lastly, as patron of Citizens’ Advice, the Princess Royal spent some time with the staff and volunteers at the Argyll & Bute Citizens’ Advice Service. She was supportive of all the great work which is carried out by this essential charity, not only to individuals during her tour, but in her remarks at the end.
While all those who had been involved in the visits, locally, could sit back and relax in the knowledge that their efforts had all been worthwhile, The Princess Royal had to head back to Edinburgh to host a dinner for 50 people at Holyrood!
The photograph shows Her Royal Highness at Citizens’ Advice Lochgilphead. The photograph is courtesy of Kevin MacGlynn, Oban. | | |  | Mrs Sheila McCallum BEM Mid Argyll | | Added: 12 Jun 2017 | | On Thursday 18 May, the Lord-Lieutenant was delighted to travel to Lochgilphead to present Mrs Sheila McCallum with her British Empire Medal. The Medal was awarded for Mrs McCallum’s long service to the music and the arts in Mid Argyll. The investiture was very much a family affair in Lochgilphead followed by a happy lunch at the Grey Gull, Ardrishaig | | |  | Centenary: Mrs Patricia Ferguson | | Added: 12 Jun 2017 | | On Wednesday 7 June, Patricia Ferguson of Innellan celebrated her 100th birthday. Our photograph shows her surrounded by her family who came from far and wide, including China and Belize, to celebrate. Also in attendance was the Very Reverend Andrew Swift, Depute Lieutenant for Argyll & Bute (seated left) who presented Mrs Ferguson with HM The Queen’s card of congratulations. | | | | | Ms Margaret Worsley BEM Tiree | | Added: 12 Jun 2017 | | On Monday 29 May, the Lord-Lieutenant was again delighted to travel, this time to Tiree, to present a British Empire Medal to Ms Margaret Worsley, who has devoted many years to the service of her community, including a long stint as a volunteer firefighter, driving the community minibus and generally supporting the older members of the community, calling on them and also organising the lunch club. This was where her medal was presented among supporters, family and friends. | | |  | Citizenship Ceremony | | Added: 26 Jan 2017 | A citizenship ceremony took place in Rothesay on Friday 20 January 2017.
Our picture shows Jiwan Ali Nabi from Syria being welcomed as a citizen of the United Kingdom in the presence of Stewart Shaw, a Depute Lieutenant of Argyll & Bute and Councillor Len Scoullar, Provost of Argyll & Bute. | | |  | Commemoration on the island of Gigha of the loss of MV Kartli | | Added: 20 Jan 2017 | On Sunday 18 December 2016, the Lord-Lieutenant was invited to unveil a memorial, on the north west coast of Gigha, commemorating those who were lost, those who were rescued and their rescuers during the tragic loss of the Soviet fish factory ship MV Kartli. The date chosen was the 25th anniversary of the tragedy.
In the presence of the Russian Consul General in Scotland, Andrey A.Pritsepov, the Lord-Lieutenant gave a short speech before unveiling the monument. The moving ceremony took place at a spot from where the site of the shipwreck could be observed and fixed using the compass set into the memorial.
After the ceremony a meeting of the Russian and local participants took place in the Gigha Hotel where the Consul General expressed his appreciation of the efforts made by the people of Gigha to commemorate the event.
| | |  | Robert Ryan MBE | | Added: 20 Jan 2017 | On 25 November 2016, Mr Robert Ryan of Craignure Isle of Mull was invested, by HRH the Duke of Rothesay, as a Member of the Order of the British Empire, at Buckingham Palace.
Mr Ryan received his award as a consequence of his long service to the traditional art of weaving and the preservation of its culture.
He reports that he and his family had a most enjoyable time at the investiture | | |  | Dr John Gordon OBE | | Added: 20 Dec 2016 | In November 2016 Dr John D M Gordon of Easdale, Argyll was invested by Prince Charles Duke of Rothesay at Buckingham Palace with an OBE for Services to Marine Science.
Dr Gordon’s lifetime work, adding to our knowledge of fish stocks and the marine environment, has been carried out from the Scottish Association for Marine Science at Dunstaffnage Oban.
He was appointed UK Buckland Professor in 1994. He chaired the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea’s Deep-water Study Group from 1995-2000 and has coordinated several European Union projects. He has also been a co-convener of four international deep-water fisheries meetings. | | |  | John Challis OBE | | Added: 18 Oct 2016 | In October 2016 John Challis of Strachur Argyll was invested, by the Duke of Cambridge, with his OBE at Buckingham Palace.
John Challis is well known for his incredible efforts through The Raven Trust to alleviate poverty in Malawi. This is an enormous, and seemingly never ending, task but John’s enthusiasm for, and dedication to the work of the Trust has never dimmed.
This award is a timely recognition for his work and is also another recognition of the strength of ties between Scotland and Malawi. | | |  | Eoin Quinn | | Added: 06 Oct 2016 | | On 2 September 2016, the Lord-Lieutenant presented to Eoin Quinn of Castlehill Primary School Campbeltown a card of thanks from Her Majesty The Queen and a covering letter from Her Lady-in-Waiting. Eoin was the proud recipient of these items following his success in the competition amongst Argyll & Bute Primary Schools, organised by the Lieutenancy, to draw a birthday card for Her Majesty. Congratulations also go to Castlehill Primary School for entering the competition so enthusiastically. | | |  | Andrew Swift | | Added: 12 Aug 2016 | On 9 July, Mrs Morag Smith, Depute Lieutenant of Argyll & Bute and responsible for the area which includes Dunoon and East Cowal, retired. The Lord-Lieutenant is very pleased to have been able to appoint the Very Reverend Andrew Swift, Dean of the Episcopal Diocese of Argyll and the Isles and Rector of Holy Trinity Church in Dunoon.
The Lord-Lieutenant commented, “Morag has been a great support and help to the Lieutenancy in the Dunoon and East Cowal area, and I believe that Andrew will be able to continue and build upon this tradition of service in the local community.”
Residents within his ’parish’ are encouraged to be in touch with Andrew on any matter relating to the Lieutenancy including the marking of centenaries and Diamond Weddings | | |  | Kenneth MacNab MBE | | Added: 03 Aug 2016 | On 7 July 2016, Kenneth MacNab of Tarbert Argyll received his MBE from Her Majesty The Queen at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Kenneth was awarded his MBE for services to the Scottish fishing industry. Coming from a long established fishing family in Tarbert, he has spent much of his life at sea. Early on in his career he took an interest in the political background to the industry and has represented the industry at local and national level for over thirty years. He has been, and continues to be, Chairman of the Clyde Fishermen’s Association.
He is also, along with his wife Liz, fully engaged in local life. He has served as Chairman of the Tarbert Harbour Authority. He was recently appointed a Depute Lieutenant in Argyll & Bute with special responsibility for Tarbert and its surrounding area. | | |  | Dr Sharon Webb MBE | | Added: 20 Jul 2016 | On 7 July, Dr Sharon Webb, Curator and Director of the Kilmartin Museum was invested, by HM The Queen, at the Palace of Holyroodhouse with an MBE. This award was given to Dr Webb in recognition of her compelling work in guiding the Museum into a leading position in the exposition of local archaeology and history.
The work of the museum can be followed through the link below.
Website: http://www.kilmartin.org/ | | |  | The Reverend Professor Kenneth Ross OBE | | Added: 20 Jul 2016 | 7 July 2016 the Reverend Professor Kenneth Ross, of Kilmelford, Minister of the Netherlorn churches was invested with the OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) awarded to him in the New Year Honours List, by HM The Queen at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Professor Ross received this honour in recognition of his substantial work for charity in Malawi, a country which for long has had a close connection with the Church of Scotland.
Kenneth Ross chairs the Scotland Malawi Partnership.
Website: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scotland_Malawi_Partnership | | |  | HRH The Prince Edward at Lochgoilhead | | Added: 11 Jul 2016 | On 7 July 2016 HRH Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex toured young people’s outdoor centres in Scotland to witness Duke of Edinburgh Award activities. One of these visits was to the Scouts’ National Activity Centre at Lochgoilhead where he saw a raft race amongst a number of youth groups including Scouts, Guides and Army Cadets. The Guides carried all before them to win comfortably but every team had good fun.
The Prints thereafter met the teens and presented prizes. He also took a close interest in the facilities at the Centre as well as listening carefully to the impression of the young people present of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Website: http://www.dofe.org/ | | |  | HRH Duke of Rothesay at Rothesay | | Added: 01 Jul 2016 | Charles, Prince of Wales and Duke of Rothesay honoured Bute Fabrics Ltd of Rothesay by paying a visit on the morning of Friday twenty-four June. John Glenn, Managing Director of Bute Fabrics had organised a detailed tour of the workplace demonstrating the high school of the workforce in producing high quality weaves and fabrics.
Leaving the premises a number of local groups, including the Rotary Club, veterans and the children of Appletree nursery were presented to the Duke.
He also witnessed demonstrations of Highland Dancing and heard the award-winning Isle of Bute pipe band.
A spokesman for the Duke commented that the Duke had thoroughly enjoyed the visit. | | |  | The Queen’s 90th Birthday Party at Rothesay | | Added: 22 Jun 2016 | On Sunday 12 2016, the Lord-Lieutenant accompanied by his wife Mary Anne attended a street party celebrating the 90th birthday of Her Majesty The Queen in Rothesay. Members of the public were invited to come along with a picnic and enjoy an afternoon listing to music provided by an eclectic group of musicians all associated with Bute. The spread of talent was eye-opening.
The event was run all afternoon and was much enjoyed by all. A great deal of organisation, superintended by Stewart Shaw DL went into the event and was clearly much appreciated. | | |  | The Queen’s 90th Birthday Party at Oban and BEM investiture | | Added: 22 Jun 2016 | On Saturday 11 June 2016, the Lord Lieutenant accompanied by his wife, Mary Ann, attended the Oban celebrations for the 90th birthday of Her Majesty The Queen which was run in conjunction with the annual Oban Charities Day.
In spite of a little dampening rain later in the day, the event was a huge success. As well as tasting Her Majesty and cutting a magnificent cake presented by Oban Times Ltd, the charities reported overall their best event yet.
The Lord-Lieutenant and his wife arrived at the event in a 1934 Rolls-Royce Silver Phantom II owned and driven by Mr David MacQueen brother. Graham MacQueen DL organised this terrific birthday party.
The party was further cause for celebration when the Lord-Lieutenant invested David Buchanan with the British Empire Medal for his long devotion to football in Oban and particularly Oban Saints. He followed this with presenting to the Committee of the Oban Winter Festival, the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. | | |  | New website launched | | Added: 26 May 2016 | HM Lord Lieutenant Argyll and Bute now has a website. The work creating this website was carried out by Samteq of Sandbank Dunoon. The Lord-Lieutenant is immensely grateful to the company for undertaking this work in a highly professional manner and without charge to the Lieutenancy.
Website: http://www.samteq.co.uk/ | | |
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