A community champion of East Kilbride was honoured as a ‘local hero’ in the presence of The King and Queen to mark 25 years of the Scottish Parliament.
Avril Anderson was hailed a ‘local hero’ at the special celebration event in Holyrood in recognition of her vital work in the community and was personally congratulated by King Charles III, Queen Camilla and First Minister John Swinney.
The community linchpin founded Calderglen High School’s award-winning befriending project.
The scheme sees S6 pupils paired up with an elderly member of the community to provide companionship. They have a chat and a cuppa or help with some odd jobs around the house.
Some meet at the local supermarket and help carry a weekly shop home and others walk with a dementia sufferer and discuss his early days at work.
This year sees the 25th anniversary of the Scottish Parliament, which was marked by the royal affair on September 28.
The event was attended by HRH The King and Her Majesty The Queen, and included special performances which showcased Scottish music and culture.
Commenting on the honour, Avril said: “I was deeply honoured and surprised to get the award.
“I was in the group meeting The Queen. We already met five years ago at the Far East Prisoners of War (FEPOW) 75th anniversary so she commented on that and asked the photographer to take an up-to-date picture which caused a lot of laughter in my group.
“I met the King on leaving and we talked of the previous meeting, he remembered it clearly and congratulated me on my award.
“A huge thank you to Collette Stevenson MSP who nominated me for this award.”
MSPs were asked to nominate ‘local heroes’ to attend the celebrations – constituents from their local area who have made an extraordinary contribution to their communities.
MSP for East Kilbride Collette Stevenson recognised the work of Avril Anderson.
The MSP said: “It was an honour to recognise Avril’s work with the befriending service and have her in Parliament to celebrate its 25th anniversary.
“Avril has devoted much time and effort over the years to help others, and it was a pleasure to share the celebrations with her.”
Last week the Befrienders had a visit from Anne McWhinnie of Dementia Friends to learn more about the debilitating condition. Over 20 S6 pupils attended and completed the course.
Their new skills will aid visits to seniors in the community who have dementia. The pupils all received a certificate and a Forget-me- Knot badge to wear to make people aware they have had training.
Seniors who live within walking distance of the school who would like to take part in the befriending project can contact Avril on 07944 890 435.
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