A BIG-hearted mum has been given special recognition from Cumbrae's elderly forum for her outstanding contribution to the island.

Lisa Christie was presented with the Kathleen Donald memorial quaich in recognition for her dedication approach to volunteering.

The elderly group asked community organisations and individuals to put forward people they believed had made a positive contribution to the wellbeing of others on the island.

Stewart Grant. of the forum. said: "The board of trustees decided, out of the many nominations, that this award should go to Lisa Christie from the Cumbrae Beecology community group.

"She has done great work for the are and is very active on the in the Cumbrae Community Council.

"Lisa is a worthy recipient."

The delighted winner said: "I am honoured to have been awarded the Kathleen Donald Memorial Trophy.

"It was a surprise to learn that I’d been nominated and I’d like to thank the board at the elderly forum very much for this award in memory of a much-loved, very special lady.

"The news at around the same time as my daughter Rhona, pictured, received a ‘special recognition’ award from Cumbrae Community Radio for her own volunteering, so it has been a great few weeks.

"We both love doing our bit to help the island and the environment. It’s something we’re passionate about and enjoy.

"I think it’s important to volunteer because it helps build stronger communities and brings people together, while also being rewarding and fun.

"I wanted to introduce my daughter to this at a young age as it gives her a sense of achievement, helps develop transferable skills which will be useful later on in life and is also great way to promote further learning outside the classroom."

The award was created in memory of Kathleen, who was tragically killed in a road accident in 2017.

It was founded to recognise Kathleen's own commitment to the local community as a church elder, treasurer of the woman’s guild and a valued member of the community choir. She was also a committed volunteer at the lunch club and elderly forum's charity shop, as well as helping with hearing services on the island.