Congratulations to 1st Buckie, who have been awarded The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service!

The prestigious award is the highest that a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE.

The group, which is based in Banffshire and is one of the largest in the UK with 170+ children and young people and a leadership team of 40+ volunteer leaders, celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. As well as running a full and varied programme for all ages, they also work in the community and support others with activities including litter picks, foodbank collections and stewarding at community events.

1st Buckie is one of 244 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the award this year. Their work, along with others from across the UK, reminds us of all the ways in which fantastic volunteers are contributing to their local communities and working to make life better for those around them.

The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate the Queen’s Golden Jubilee. Recipients are announced each year on 2nd June, the anniversary of Her Majesty’s Coronation.

Representatives of 1st Buckie will receive the award crystal and certificate from Andrew Simpson, Lord-Lieutenant of Banffshire later this summer. In addition, two of their leaders will attend a Garden Party at Holyrood House in Summer 2023, along with other recipients of this year’s award.

Andrew Simpson, Lord-Lieutenant of Banffshire, said: “I am delighted to congratulate all the members and leaders of 1st Buckie on achieving this award. It is an amazing achievement and reflects the hard work, dedication and enthusiasm of many people over their 75 years. Members clearly not only enjoy their involvement, but also gain many personal skills that equip them for life. The support of families and the community is a key part of their success and thanks are due to all who help or work with the group. Congratulations and very well done to their Captain, Alan McIntosh DL BEM, and everyone associated with the group on this outstanding success.”

Alan McIntosh, Captain of 1st Buckie, said: “It is a great honour and privilege for 1st Buckie to receive this award. For it to coincide with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and our own 75th anniversary makes it even more special. Our thanks go out to the children and young people, the leaders, the parents/carers, the local community, our sponsors and our Church. Without their support we would never have reached this far.”