North Ayrshire Provost Ian Clarkson has paid tribute to Alistair Chisholm as the popular music teacher and organist was presented with his British Empire Medal.

The Lord Lieutenant of Ayrshire and Arran John Duncan awarded the BEM at a special ceremony at the Cathedral of the Isles, Millport, on Saturday.

It was announced earlier this year that Mr Chisholm was to receive the honour for services to music and culture on the Isle of Cumbrae.

Provost Clarkson said: "It was fitting that the presentation was held at the cathedral, a place where Alistair first became the organist more than 40 years ago.

"He is well known throughout Millport, both in his role at the cathedral, and as a teacher at Cumbrae Secondary School and Largs Academy, where he passed on his love of music to so many people. The presentation of the BEM to Alistair is richly deserved."

Mr Chisholm, who is originally from Glasgow, has been an organist for the Cathedral of The Isles from 1969-74 & 1987-present. Between 1974 and 1987 has was an organist at St Columba's Episcopal Church in Largs.

Before the ceremony, Provost Clarkson also took the opportunity to meet members of the Community Arts Studio at the Cathedral, who were preparing for an open day. They explained the work of the studio and outlined what they do to encourage and further arts in the community.

Later, Provost Clarkson met members of the Isle of Cumbrae Elderly Forum at their shop in Guildford Street, Millport.

The forum, which has more than 100 members, has been in existence for 10 years and members run a lunch club, community minibus, library club, outings, hearing aid maintenance, and many other services.

The forum also offers advice on a variety of subject, assist with the local day centre, and members were heavily involved with the building of 12 much-needed award-winning amenity houses.

The group is currently completing a feasibility study into building a Community Care Hub for the island so that the elderly do not have to head to the mainland at a potentially-vulnerable time of their lives.

Provost Clarkson said: "It has been wonderful to see the great work being done on Cumbrae by people who represent what a real community should be all about.

"Whether it’s Alistair who has devoted such a huge part of his life to music on the island, or members of the local arts group or elderly forum, they have all impacted their community in a positive and meaningful way.

"I've meet so many inspirational people today and they are a real credit to Millport and the Isle of Cumbrae."