That the Parliament congratulates Dr Anne McArthur and Bob Philips of Portsoy on being recognised in The King’s New Year Honours, with the award of the British Empire Medal (BEM); notes that Dr McArthur’s award acknowledges her decades of selfless work in the Portsoy community, including her leadership of the Anne McArthur Scottish Country Dance School, which has brought joy to hundreds of pupils over the years, her pivotal role in establishing and managing the Salmon Bothy and local heritage centre, and her status as a founding member of Portsoy Community Enterprise, whose stellar achievements include organising the world-renowned Portsoy Traditional Boat Festival, an event of national importance that draws thousands of visitors to the historic village; further notes the recognition of Bob Philips for his exceptional contributions over many years, including his dedicated involvement with the Portsoy Scout Group, Banff Rugby Club, the music group, Folk at the Salmon Bothy, and the acclaimed Portsoy Boat Festival, as well as founding the Haal folk festival, a summer highlight that attracts visitors from far and wide; believes that these awards are a testament to the extraordinary community spirit in and around Portsoy, and that they highlight the transformative impact of Dr McArthur’s and Mr Philips’ work; thanks both for their tireless efforts in making Portsoy a cultural beacon, and extends its best wishes to them for the future.
Supported by:
Clare Adamson, Jeremy Balfour, Colin Beattie, Miles Briggs, Sharon Dowey, Jackie Dunbar, Tim Eagle, Annabelle Ewing, Emma Harper, Bill Kidd, Fulton MacGregor, Stuart McMillan, Audrey Nicoll, Emma Roddick, Paul Sweeney, David Torrance, Annie Wells