Local heroes celebrated at the Provost’s Civic Awards

Published 20 January 2026

A volunteer team whose bravery has saved countless lives has been named Citizen of the Year at this year’s Provost’s Civic Awards.

The Loch Lomond Rescue Boat volunteers were honoured for their extraordinary commitment to public safety, responding to more than 80 emergency callouts last year alone. Often leaving work, rising in the middle of the night, or stepping away from family moments, the team has shown unwavering dedication to protecting residents and visitors. Beyond emergency rescues, they also deliver vital water‑safety education across West Dunbartonshire.

Earlier in the event, Annette McPhie was named Community Champion, recognising her decades of service across the Vale of Leven and beyond. At 79, Annette continues to volunteer tirelessly in schools, hospital wards, community groups, and with vulnerable individuals. Her recent work researching how Age Concern can better support widows and widowers with financial challenges is just one example of her ongoing commitment to helping others.

Courtney Devenney, Tommy Miller, St Patrick’s Lunch Club, Tony Ercoli and Yvonne O’Neill, were also presented with certificates as finalists by the Provost. All seven nominees attended the event which included a performance by West Dunbartonshire’s Music Service and an opportunity to celebrate their commitments with Councillors, the Lord Lieutenant and Depute Lieutenants and members of the Scottish Fire service and Police Scotland.

Provost Karen Murray Conaghan praised all finalists and winners, saying: “Every nomination this year reflected the very best of West Dunbartonshire. The Loch Lomond Rescue Boat volunteers and Annette McPhie embody the compassion, courage, and community spirit that make our area so special. All of our nominees are amazing inspirational people and it was an absolute pleasure to recognise and celebrate them, I hope they know how grateful everyone is for their contributions to our communities.”

She added that the dedication shown by all nominees — from youth fundraisers to community organisers and volunteer groups — demonstrates the strength and resilience of local communities.