Councillor praised for aiding veterans

Hard-working Archie Dryburgh receives local honour

- SHARON LIPTROTT

hallattie day Councillor Dryburgh opened the local VJ Day service

The "significant" work undertaken by councillor Archie Dryburgh MBE to support the armed forces community across the region during 2024/25 will be highlighted this month.

In his role of Armed Forces Champion for Dumfries and Galloway, the popular Annandale East and Eskdale councillor had an exceptionally busy year which included the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Landings in June 2024 and culminated in him receiving a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in September for his outstanding contribution to local government over 17 years.

The award from the Association for Public Service Excellence came just over a year after he underwent lifesaving surgery for one of the most aggressive forms of brain tumour.

Ahead of the report for the December 11 meeting of the Full Council in Dumfries, Councillor Dryburgh said: "It is an honour to serve as Armed Forces Champion and to work alongside partners and communities to ensure our veterans and wider armed forces community receive the recognition and support they deserve. Hosting national events and commemorating historic milestones reflects the deep respect we hold for those who have served."