MBE’S have been bestowed on two of Ayrshire’s fantastic residents as they were honoured in the the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list.

George Powell, 75, of the 1st Troon Boys Brigade was honoured among many in the New Year’s Honours List for his fantastic 58 years of service.
He was not alone as Jeanette Henderson, 67, was also honoured for her amazing 50 years at Ailsa Hospital.

George, pictured, who is from Muirhead, spoke to the Ayr Advertiser Series about his honour.

He said: “I think it is a great award, but it isn’t just for me, it is for everyone at the 1st Troon Company.

“It is recognition for everyone.”

George will continue to work with the 1st Troon Boys Brigade into the 2019-20 season as the company celebrates its centenary year.

He said: “As long as I am fit and healthy I will keep going to celebrate the 100 years.”

Jeanette, who was also honoured, joined Ailsa Hospital when she was just 16. 

John Burns, NHS Ayrshire & Arran Chief Executive, said: “Jeanette’s MBE for services to healthcare is truly deserved as she epitomised nursing in its truest form.

“She has never been one to refuse a challenge at any time during her career, since starting as a student nurse at Ailsa Hospital in 1965.

“She cared for patients and staff alike and always led by example – even postponing her retirement to oversee the move of patients and staff from Ailsa Hospital to Woodland View.

“On behalf of NHS Ayrshire & Arran I would like to congratulate Jeanette on her MBE and wish her a long and happy retirement.”

In other honour news, John Duncan, the Lord Lieutenant of Ayrshire and Arran has became a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order.