By Stuart Coull –
Community council members and guests joined in a round of applause for this year’s Hannah Dyson Award winners – Finlay Sangster and Phoebe Lawson – at their monthly meeting on Tuesday (April 11).
The award is usually given to a young person (under 18) with a strong association with Stonehaven, who has achieved outstanding youth achievement, excellence or merit in one of the following areas: academic or sporting success, an act of bravery, outstanding caring or community service, special achievement despite limitations imposed by hardship, disability or long-term illness or any other appropriate kind of excellence.
But this year, the SDCC Youth Awards Committee decided to recognise both Finlay and Phoebe for their excellence.
Community Council Secretary Alistair Lawrie said: “Its wonderful in a world where youngsters are so often being blamed for all the ills we face, to remember that the vast majority of them are decent, hard-working individuals who contribute hugely to the community. We had a bumper crop of nominees this year – more than we normally do.
“I’m delighted to say we have ended up with two different recipients, but each, equally, worthy. They are Finlay Sangster and Phoebe Lawson.
“Finlay is given the award because, despite the many difficulties that he faces – including dyslexia, discalcula and his cerebal palsy – has achieved magnificently during his last year at Mackie Academy, gaining a number of full SQA qualifications at National 5. He is considering going to college next year.
“It’s a testament to the hard work, resilience and, in the words of his nominator, the sheer “bloody mindedness” that he has shown. Well done to him.
“Early in 2022, Phoebe won Springboard’s Future Chef competition. She has been invited to cook meals the great and the good, and has done special demonstrations for groups in the town.
“As if a year of such success wasn’t enough, she has also shown considerable determination and skill in her capacity as a sports ambassador for Mackie Academy. She was recently selected to play for the Scottish girls rugby regional games, as part of the Caledonian North Team.
“Congratulations from the whole of Stonehaven and District Community Council to Finlay and Phoebe.”
Finlay and Phoebe will each receive a cheque for £100 along with a parchment certificate at the awards ceremony in May.