Menstrie man earns BEM for services during the coronavirus pandemic

David Sharp, of Menstrie Community Council, was named on the Queen's Birthday Honours list for his outstanding contribution throughout the crisis.

He has been spearheading the community response to Covid-19 in Menstrie for many months since lockdown began in March.

Dave organised funding for several projects, going above and beyond by all accounts.

As part of that, the dedicated Menstrie man has been organising and dropping off 160 food parcels a week for the elderly and vulnerable in the village.

More than 3,000 parcels have been distributed to date.

Another initiative saw VE Day packs delivered to children and adults around Menstrie, as reported at the time.

Speaking to the Advertiser, Dave said: "Personally, it has been a great pleasure to receive the honour to be included in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours list and to receive the British Empire Medal, something I will cherish for many a year to come.

"I would like to personally thank my wife, Val, family and volunteers for assisting me during this difficult time."

Anthea Coulter, chief officer and business manager at Clackmannanshire Third Sector Interface has been working in close partnership with Dave and the community council under his leadership.

She said: "He is a fantastic contributor and has led all the community work through Covid-19.

"We are delighted he is being recognised for this significant contribution to Menstrie and his community."

Dave will be receiving the award from Clackmannanshire's Lord Lieutenant Lt Col Johnny Stewart at a ceremony when it is safe to do so.

And the Lord Lieutenant himself is also being recognised this time around, receiving an award rather than just handing them out.

Clacks Lord Lieutenant Johnny Stewart

Mr Stewart has been made a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order (LVO) on standing down after 10 years as adjutant to the Royal Company of Archers, the personal bodyguard of the monarch in Scotland.

The Lord Lieutenant congratulated Dave on the achievement and said: “I am absolutely delighted that David Sharp has been recognised for all he has done for the people of Menstrie during these very difficult times.

“I look forward to presenting him with his BEM when it is safe to do so."

In the role, the retired Lt Col has been responsible for organising all things ceremonial when the monarch visits Scotland.

Speaking of his own award, which came after around 30 years of volunteering in the ceremonial unit, Mr Stewart said: “I cannot tell you what a privilege it was, I adore the royal family and to that job for the queen was really special.

“You meet such fascinating people from all walks of life.”

He added: “I am very humbled to receive this award, it's a huge privilege to be a member of the Victorian Order.”