Footwear with a difference for awards night but who is in the wellies?
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TWO of Buckie RNLI's volunteers said they were "humbled" after the organisation won the Emergency Services Hero of the Year award on Thursday night.
Operations manager Anne Scott and coxswain Davie Grant collected their award to rapturous applause during the Moray and Banffshire Heroes event held in Brodie Country Fair.
Anne switched her footwear before she climbed up to the stage, slipping on the bright yellow wellies that she is better used to wearing in helping to assist the life-saving group of 24 lifeboat and shore crew that operate from the coastal town.
Taking to the mic, Anne said: "I have a mix of emotions.
"I'm absolutely delighted to win this award but regretting the challenge of wearing my wellies on stage if we won now!
"It's great to see people in the area appreciate what we do.
"It can present a lot of challenges so it is great to know we are here in people's hearts and minds."
This year was the second time Buckie RNLI had been recognised in the Moray and Banffshire and Heroes awards, after the group won the same category in 2019 and was also named the Hero of Heroes that night as well.
Speaking afterwards, Anne, who has been a part of the organisation for 21 years, told Highland News and Media: "We are just delighted. Thank-you to everybody who voted.
"It's just been so humbling to be a part of it all."
Davie, who has 29 years of service, admitted that he would prefer to be out on the water in a force 10 gale than be the centre of attention at an awards ceremony.
That being said, however, he was extremely grateful to everyone who voted for the Buckie RNLI.
He added: "It's not just for the crews, it's for the families who support the crews as well.
"It gives us some kind of thanks for all of the three-o-clock in the morning calls.
"It's the public's vote so it means a lot. It's good to see that the public appreciate us providing the service."
The volunteer lifeboat crews provide a 24-hour search and rescue service to help save lives at risk on the Moray Firth and coastal areas, as well as influencing, supervising and educating local communities in maritime safety.
As a charity, the organisation does not receive any government funding. With a current team of 24, Anne said they are always looking for more volunteers and welcome interest from people aged over 18.
n The Emergency Services Hero of the Year award was sponsored by Banff-based energy industry specialist, Motive Offshore.
