THE inaugural Happiness Festival Award from Resonate Arts House has been presented to a Clackmannanshire volunteer.

Margaret Paton, who gave 12 years to Claremont Primary and has spent the last three years working with youngsters at Redwell Primary School, has been recognised for her caring nature.

In the nomination from the school it highlighted that she has a positive, nurturing impact on the children, staff and senior management team.

She gives support, notices the small things like if others have a cold or look tired, and offers a smile in the corridor.

She was described as a “a lovely person whom we really appreciate and who brings a brightness, a ray of happiness into our busy, stressful days”.

The accolade from the not-forprofit organisation celebrates the efforts of individuals in the community to spread happiness and increase the wellbeing of local people.

Hannah Stevenson, Resonate’s activities coordinator, said: “The Happiness Award was started to recognise the small acts of kindness by individuals which, together, make our community a happier place.

“Mrs Paton was nominated by her colleagues at Redwell and straight away we knew that she would be a brilliant choice for the award.

“She makes a positive difference to the lives of her colleagues and the pupils alike and, as fellow volunteers, we were delighted to recognise her efforts.”

At a special assembly on Margaret’s final day at Redwell, the school children sang Give Me Sunshine and presented her with a number of cards, flowers and gifts.

Everyone at Resonate Arts House wishes her well for the future, thanking her for all she has done.

The Happiness Festival is an annual event which aims to share happiness through creativity.

Held at Resonate’s premises in Alloa, it is packed full of activities for both children and adults.

The theme for next year’s festival, which will take place during the Easter holidays, will be Looking Ahead.