Pride of Buchan awards for Peterhead Sailing Club and dedicated volunteer
Pride of Buchan awards have been presented to Peterhead Sailing Club and one of its most dedicated volunteers in recognition of their contribution to local sport, community development and youth engagement.
For many years, the club has provided a welcoming and inclusive environment for people of all ages to learn and enjoy sailing.
Aberdeenshire Council’s Buchan Area Committee recently heard that the club has become a cornerstone of Peterhead’s sporting landscape – not only nurturing future sailors but also fostering teamwork, confidence and resilience among local young people.
Its volunteers work tirelessly to grow participation, ensure access to training opportunities, and promote safe, skill-building activities on the water. The award acknowledges the club’s commitment to strengthening the community, supporting outdoor activity and offering positive pathways for children and young adults.
Meanwhile, a personal Pride of Buchan award was presented to Martin Thain, a dedicated and highly-respected volunteer at the sailing club. Martin’s contribution has been transformative, particularly in the development of youth sailing programmes and the mentoring of young leaders.
His work was recently recognised at national level, being named a recipient of the RYA Scotland Impact Award, a prestigious honour given to individuals who make an outstanding difference within their sailing communities.
Martin has played a pivotal role in establishing a structured and engaging winter activity programme to keep young sailors involved year-round and has created pathways for young people to develop leadership roles both on and off the water.
He has also been central to the promotion of a culture of safety, learning and enjoyment within the club and has been an avid champion of opportunities for young sailors to gain confidence, new skills and a sense of achievement. His dedication, passion and generosity of his own time have made a lasting impact not only on the club, but on the lives of many young people who have benefitted from his guidance.
Buchan Area Committee chair Cllr Dianne Beagrie said: “I am delighted for the team at Peterhead Sailing Club and for Martin in receiving these richly-deserved awards. Their dedication to our community is exceptional and it is always a pleasure to visit them and see the tremendous work they do.
“The Pride of Buchan awards recognise individuals, groups and organisations who make significant contributions to local life. Both awards presented reflect the exceptional efforts being made in Peterhead to support young people, grow community sport and strengthen local connections.
“We extend our warmest congratulations to Peterhead Sailing Club and to Martin Thain for their remarkable achievements, well-deserved recognition and continued service to our community.”
