Isobel Kirkwood's late husband was cared for by the charity in 1995 and has volunteered there ever since
An Erskine volunteer of over 20 years, who lived through the Blitz during the second world war, has received the British Empire Medal for services to veterans in Scotland.
Isobel Kirkwood, who is 96, was awarded the medal in the New Year’s Honours list by Her Majesty The Queen for a sustained, local contribution to charity.
She was presented with the medal at the charity’s home in Bishopton on behalf of Her Majesty, by the Lord-Lieutenant of Renfrewshire, Guy Clark.
Isobel, who lives in Newton Mearns, Glasgow, has volunteered with the charity since the mid 1990s and was insistent on being presented with the medal at The Erskine Home. She was surrounded by family, friends and Erskine staff and the provost of East Renfrewshire Alastair Carmichael.
Her connection with the veterans’ charity began in 1995 when her husband Robert, a Spitfire pilot, moved into Erskine Hospital which was then in Mar Hall. When Erskine started a fundraising campaign to build the current home, it was then that Isobel felt she could do something to help. Subsequently, and for quarter of a century Isobel has volunteered with Erskine.
I have had a long retirement, outlived my husband and many of my friends, and Erskine has provided me a reason to get out of bed in the morning
Taking her duties very seriously, Isobel can still be found on a weekly basis in the fundraising office where she stuffs envelopes with vigour. As a retired headteacher she provides invaluable history lessons to children by going into primary schools to tell them about her life during the second world war; teaching children during the Blitz in London; meeting her husband and why Erskine is such a special place where he lived for eight years.
“Being awarded the British Empire Medal was a great and unexpected honour,” said Isobel.
“My feelings for Erskine are difficult to put into words. The fundraisers always thank me for helping them but they have no idea how much they have helped me. I have had a long retirement, outlived my husband and many of my friends, and Erskine has provided me with a new and varied career, a reason to get out of bed in the morning and a chance to be with young company. I have so many toy boys at Erskine which Robert would be delighted about.”
A spokesperson from Erskine’s fundraising team added: “Isobel is an inspiration; a friend who is admired and very much valued by all of us – and she certainly keeps us on our toes!
“We are truly humbled by her dedication over the last three decades, raising vital funds and awareness for the benefit of our veterans.
“Her commitment to our veterans is unsurpassed and there is never a job too big or small - Isobel will always find a way to get it done! We are all very proud of Isobel’s formal acknowledgement of her tireless efforts in volunteering.”
