The President’s Award is our highest honour, recognising exceptional volunteering services to the charity. All our volunteers are amazing, but only a select few receive our highest honour.
In 2024, we were delighted to present the President’s Award to five outstanding volunteers.
Two awards were presented at the Inverness Town House and three awards at the Scottish Parliament.
Read more about four of our 2024 award winners below.
Alan McNamarra
Despite facing health challenges, Alan has been a passionate Poppyscotland volunteer for over 12 years, dedicating himself to the Poppy Appeal rain or shine. From organising raffles and auctions to leading Remembrance Walks and inspiring others to give back, Alan’s impact is incredible.A true Poppyscotland hero, Alan we thank you for your commitment, time and continued efforts year on year.
George Robertson
At 90 years old, George’s dedication to veterans and his community is inspiring.
Starting off his young life helping his grandfather, a First World War Black Watch veteran, construct gas masks for general use, he was then called up for National Service, joining the Royal Signals.
His military career saw him complete National Service, but by 1956 the Suez Crisis had blown up and George was recalled.
Later marrying Dorothy, the couple would move to Kuwait where Saddam Hussein invaded the country. After 6 weeks in hiding, George and Dorothy were taken hostage. Dorothy was released along with all the women and children who had been taken prisoner but her husband was forced to work in a chemical factory in Bagdad, eventually being released and chartered home on a flight provided by Richard Branson.
Upon retirement George was a voluntary S.S.A.F.A. case worker, attending to the needs and funds of ex-service personnel.
For the last 16 years, George has volunteered on the Poppy Scotland stall at Riverside Drive, Dundee, putting in many more hours than most other volunteers.
At a time of life where most people would be looking to slow down George just seems to keep going at the same pace and in fact due to his continued very active role within the local Poppy community we have continued to not only exist but have flourished.
Andrew Gorrian
Andrew’s dedication to the Scottish Poppy Appeal is unmatched—personally distributing collection tins, championing the Armed Forces, and building meaningful community relationships year-round.
Serving as Prestonpans branch manager for 32 years, working hard to ensure the branch was active within the community and has continued to flourish, he also plays an integral role in the planning and execution of the Remembrance Sunday Parade and open-air service, sitting on the organising committee and always willing to share his expertise to ensure the success of the event.
The impact and influence that Andrew has on the Prestonpans Scottish Poppy Appeal is hard to measure but as he heads towards retirement as Branch manager, we all know how lucky we have been to have him organising the Scottish Poppy Appeal for so many years.
Linda Mackenzie
Linda, a dedicated member of the Inverness Scottish Poppy Appeal team, is always first in line to lend a hand, tirelessly raising funds for Scotland’s Armed Forces community. From organising pub quizzes to delivering wreaths, Linda's dedication shines through. Incredibly, her efforts have contributed over £15,000 toward last year’s Appeal alone!
Lt Colonel David Broadfoot MBE
Lt Colonel David Broadfoot MBE has been the heart and soul of the wonderfully successful Scottish Poppy Appeal in Elgin for many years.
A founding member of the Scottish Poppy Appeal in Elgin, Lt Colonel David is always one step ahead, using his skills and expertise to engage younger members to the committee, with local youth groups such as the sea and air cadets, Police Scotland youth volunteers and pupils at Gordonstoun school all supporting the Appeal.
Thank you, Lt Colonel Broadfoot, for your inspiring leadership and years of unwavering service. This award is so well deserved!
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