Maggie Bell and Tina Coffey profiled by Scottish Womens Convention for work at Moray Firth Credit Union

TWO local ladies are showcased on a web-based platform aimed at helping women engage with politicians and influencers.

Moray councillor Lorna Creswell nominated fellow Moray Firth Credit Union (MFCU) volunteers Maggie Bell and Tina Coffey to be profiled at www.scottishwomensconvention.org for “going beyond the call of duty” during the coronavirus pandemic.

Cllr Creswell explained: “Both are inspiring women who have excelled in their support of MFCU members during Covid-19. Maggie recruited and supported new volunteers. She learned how to use new credit union software then passed these skills on. She prepares the premises every morning for ongoing member visits, sanitising the equipment and ensuring government guidance is followed. Her positive attitude affects the other volunteers, as well as the members.”

Cllr Creswell highlighted the MFCU interim manager’s diligence in quickly arranging for distribution of donations of food, toys and vouchers to some of the credit union’s members before Christmas then into the new year.

Cllr Creswell added: “Maggie has a passion for supporting the credit union, being a founder member. As well as bringing up a family while studying in Aberdeen for work at Forres Academy, Maggie volunteers at the Wednesday Night Group in Forres. She’s a true community worker!”

Cllr Creswell also praised MFCU secretary Tina Coffey, whose communication and IT skills have proved invaluable.

Cllr Creswell said: “Tina initiated our digital newsletters because Covid-19 restrictions urge virtual connections. Our name change from Forres Area Credit Union was agreed by the Financial Conduct Authority just before the first lockdown so Tina adapted MFCU’s stationery without the help of professionals. She also immediately set up a Zoom arrangement and hosted fortnightly board meetings which kept members informed too.”

Tina is the secretary for many local groups including Forres Area Forum and Forres Area Community Trust. She also helps organise Forres Town Hall coffee mornings and plays a big part in her local church.

“She’s the one who keeps everyone connected,” said Cllr Creswell, “and follows up on decisions made by the groups after meetings are held. Being an administrator in a large primary school in Elgin has made it harder for her to juggle these roles but she is amazing and inspiring. We were pleased that she received a commendation for her community work last summer from the Lord Lieutenant of Moray. Both Tina and Maggie are fun too and we can’t praise them enough!”