A DEDICATED woman who has led a group of Wee County fundraisers for two decades has last week received a British Empire Medal.

Family, friends and representatives gathered in Alloa on a beautiful day as Kit Gow received her honours from Clackmannanshire Lord-Lieutenant Johnny Stewart.

Known to most as Kit, Kathleen Elizabeth Gow was originally named in the 2023 New Years Honours List and it is understood her accolade is the first such honour to go out in the Wee County under the reign of King Charles III.

For years, Kit has chaired the fundraising group Opening More Doors (OMD), securing tens of thousands of pounds for other good causes in the area.

She received the accolade for her services to charity on Tuesday, May 9, on what was a beautiful day and a welcome break from recent rainy weather.

Kit told the Advertiser: "It's a great honour and a privilege to have been able to be a part of Opening More Doors for over 20 years.

"We were all very happy to be able to help our community, to help the different charities within our community."

HONOURS: Kit Gow received her British Empire Medal from Lord-Lieutenant Johnny Stewart in Alloa - Pictures courtesy of Craig Dunbar/Clackmannanshire Lieutenancy

HONOURS: Kit Gow received her British Empire Medal from Lord-Lieutenant Johnny Stewart in Alloa - Pictures courtesy of Craig Dunbar/Clackmannanshire Lieutenancy

While OMD has since been wound up, the memories will stay with Kit and other members and they are all still as active in their communities as they can be.

Each year, OMD would choose three good causes in Clacks to support with the aim of raising awareness and funds while having a little bit of fun.

There have been countless concerts, lunches, auctions and other fundraising events – all giving people a chance to come and work together.

Kit previously highlighted the friendships built and sustained over the years with members, such as OMD vice-chair Linda Aikman or Moragh Dunning.

Some 30 people attended a tea party in Alloa to commemorate the occasion, those attending included faithful husband David, daughters Elaine and Jill and grandson Jack.

Lord-Lieutenant Johnny Stewart, who previously hailed the "incredible work" of Kit and the fundraising ladies, said on social media: "Known throughout the burgh and county, Kit and her team have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charitable causes over many years and it was a pleasure to see so many of them in attendance today to see her receive this very deserved award.

"Her drive and enthusiasm and ability to persuade friends and family to assist in these worthwhile causes is second to none."