While the Scottish drums boomed at this year’s Aberdeen Highland Games, behind the scenes volunteers worked to the beat of their own drum.
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One such volunteer organisation, the Aberdeen State Emergency Service (SES), were kept extremely busy directing crowds and traffic from dawn till dusk – and their efforts did not go unnoticed.
Aberdeen SES deputy unit controller Ray Butchard said he was overwhelmed to receive a generous donation from the Aberdeen Highland Games committee last week in appreciation of a job well done.
“The money will be put to very good use that is for sure.
“It was more money than we expected and we are extremely grateful,” Mr Butchard said.
With 2014 one of the largest crowds on record, the flow on benefits of a successful Highland Games has flowed through to the community.
“This year was the largest number of vehicles we have managed for the event with parking at a premium by lunch time.
“Our volunteers were kept busy throughout the day, but it is all work we are very happy to do,” he said.
Mr Butchard said the donation would be used to purchase new equipment for the SES.
“We have already purchased new hydraulic jacks to manoeuvre heavy equipment around and bring us into line with Work Health and Safety regulations.
“The remaining funds will be used to upgrade our ablution facilities and improve disabled access,” Mr Butchard said.