A well-known Fife funeral director has been has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the New Year's honours list.

John Gilfillan from Cardenden has been recognised for his services to bereaved people and the community in Benarty.

The funeral director, aged 66, has been particularly praised for providing his services as an undertaker to ex-serviceman either for free or at a significantly reduced cost.

Among his very many hats, he organises and performs at the annual Burn’s Night celebrations, free of charge, for older members of the community in their sheltered housing facilities.

John is also a regular volunteer at the annual Benarty Children's Gala day, organising all the children's races for fun day for the community.

He donates regularly to local clubs and good causes including the Sportsman's Brunch, Lochgelly Golf Club and the Summer Drive and High Tea for senior citizens. And the bowling and football clubs.

But in a professional capacity he is known for delivering a large amount of funerals for the local community and investing a significant amount of time leading and speaking at the services for the bereaved.

John told the Times: "Although tinged with sadness, at the end of which has been a difficult year and for many compounded by the loss of a loved one, I'm nonetheless extremely proud and honoured to accept the award on behalf of the communities in which I serve.

"Celebrations will somehow be muted, giving what’s going on but I will quietly sit with his family and enjoy a wee dram as I reflects on these last twenty six and half years caring for local families.

"I would like to thank myteam, Norma, Angela, Paul, Tom, Alistair and Craig, the supporting staff at Fife Funeral Services, Funeral Celebrants, Fife Council Bereavement Services and local florists, Fife Flowers and Silk Flowers, for their commitment and dedication throughout the years.

"And a most grateful thanks to those bereaved families who have put their trust and faith in their local funeral director."

John has pledged to be around for a couple of more years before taking a well-earned rest, but is hoping he will be asked to continue with annual events and looks forward to his appointed role as Chieftain of Bowhill Highland Games later in the year.

It was over two years ago when several people, mainly ex-military friends, considered John’s worthiness for a Queens Honour.

His wife Norma then spoke to John’s friend and fellow Rotarian, Tom Russell to help and he was instrumental in assisting with the paperwork required to initiate the award proceedings.

Many others also added testimonies including senior military and prominent local dignitaries.

"One of the people who spoke on my behalf was the late Councillor Wullie Clarke who sent a testimony just before his passing on October 30, 2019," John explained.

"It was only shortly after that I stood amongst hundreds of mourners paying tribute to Wullie and led his service.

"I had great deal of respect for Wullie and was so touched when I found that one of the last things he did was write those kind words about me."

John became a funeral director following a 23 year career in the Black Watch, reaching the rank of Warrant Officer.

Testimonies spoke about John’s dedication as a leading light in the funeral profession and because of his background he has often been asked to lead the funerals of soldiers who had lost their lives in war zones such as Iraq and Afghanistan.

John added: "It's been overwhelming to know that people worked hard to get me this award and as I reflect back I'm very proud and privileged to receive this honour.

"It's a privilege to be asked by families to give a final tribute to their loved ones."