AN OUTSTANDING maths scholar with a track record of caring for family members has won this year’s Hannah Dyson Award.
Meanwhile, a woman who saved a neighbour from a burning building; a pharmacist delivering outstanding service and care; a dedicated Sea Cadet officer – and the happy tooting team of the Stoney Express are all recongnised with a Community Award.
Hannah Dyson Award – In memory of a brave teenager
The Hannah Dyson Award is given by Stonehaven and District Council, SDCC, in memory of the Netherley teenager who died in 2005 after a courageous fight with Cystic Fibrosis.
And this year, Oscar Lawson, an S6 pupil at Mackie Academy earns his recognition for his outstanding academic achievement, exceptional caring and community service, and his special achievement despite significant personal hardship.
With a place at St Andrew’s University already in the bag, Oscar gained A grades in his Highers and is currently studying Advanced Higher Mathematics and Mathematics of Mechanics. His passion for mathematics is evident in his analytical thinking, intellectual curiosity and willingness to challenge himself. This was highlighted by his participation in the 2025 UK Senior Maths Challenge, where he achieved Best in School, reflecting both high attainment and a genuine love of learning.
But the teenager shows more than just academic flair.
His nomination states: ”Oscar has shown outstanding caring and community service as a young carer. While at school, he took on significant caring responsibilities for his grandmother, who suffered from Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). Oscar supported her with daily routines, mobility and companionship, particularly as communication became increasingly difficult. Following her passing, Oscar has continued his caring role by supporting his uncle, who has cerebral palsy.
”He has carried out these responsibilities with compassion, patience and maturity far beyond his years.”
The Lawson family will be especially proud – this is the second time they will give a home to the Hannah Dyson Award as Oscar’s sister Phoebe won the award in 2023.
This year’s Community Awards go to …
Nola de Garis
Nothing exemplifies heroism more than a 4am dash into a smoke-filled, burning building to save an occupant. And that is exactly the act earning Nola her Community Award.
Her nomination states: ”On the 12th March in the very early hours of the morning, there was a very serious house fire in 65 Barclay Street. It looks as is the fire grew in intensity very quickly. Suzie, the owner of the ground floor flat (where the fire started) managed to escape. She realised that the rooms above were occupied by an elderly man, who suffered from dementia. Suzie also knew that Nola de Garis, who lives a short distance away, cleaned his flat and so had a key. So, Suzie banged on Nola’s door.
”Nola went across and let herself into his staircase. Despite the property by now being smoke-logged, she entered and went upstairs and helped him down the stairs to safety. The Fire Brigade – who had to come from Altens and Laurencekirk – had not arrived by this time.
”Nola’s very prompt and unflinching action was an extremely brave and risky act, which almost certainly saved his life.”
Maria Coll
Some 70 of Stonehaven’s youngsters now enjoy an exciting blend of sea-based sport and rigorous Unit discipline at the award-winning TS Carron. Much of this is thanks to the dedication of Maria Coll, who first joined Stonehaven’s Sea Cadets in 2022 and now serves as Commanding Officer of Stonehaven Sea Cadets.
Her contribution to the development of the Sea Cadets is noted in her nomination which states: ”Under Maria’s leadership, the unit has seen significant growth and development.
”In 2025, she played a key role in establishing a Royal Marines Cadets (RMC) section, as well as introducing a new junior section for 9-year-olds. These initiatives have expanded opportunities for young people within the community.
”The impact of her work is clear—where the unit previously had approximately 20–30 cadets, it has now grown to over 70. This growth reflects her dedication, leadership, and ability to inspire and support young people. Maria’s commitment to developing the unit and supporting cadets has made a positive and lasting impact on the Stonehaven community.”
Paul Dunlop
You might not always find an instant cure when you visit one of our local pharmacies, but thanks to Paul Dunlop’s kind attention, you are sure to leave feeling better.
Paul is the pharmacist at Michie Chemist’s in Stonehaven. The awards team at SDCC have received numerous comments from grateful customers attesting to the way he goes beyond the letter of his job requirements to assist and advise local people with health issues.
One states: ”I am not alone in feeling he should receive some recognition for his contribution to his customers, many of whom are aged. Paul is patient and kind smoothes problems between the surgery and patient, especially involving computers and claryfing appointments.
”He helps young Mums not sure if their child needs to see a doctor or recommends over the counter remedy for latest bug going around the town. He offers reassurance that they are doing the right thing and not to hesitate to return and let him know if he has helped. He’s never patronising – doctors at Surgery have said that he is a massive help to them.”
First Group Community Award
For the first time this year, the awards team have decided to offer a group award. This is for the sterling work put in by those who organise and operate Stonehaven’s Land Train, which is owned by the Stonehaven Town Partnership.
The town’s ever-popular Stoney Express was brought back into action on our streets last year. A team of drivers and conductors is needed to keep ‘the show on the road’. And the effort made by all involved to make the hour-long journey both fun and interesting has delighted locals and visitors alike.
Special theme days – such as the Halloween Express and the Abba outing added an extra dimension. And in addition to their public outings, the Stoney Express has developed a community service role offering tours to older folks and community groups – all done with a smile and a toot!
The Community Award is presented by SDCC in conjunction with the Stonehaven Business Association and local churches. A presentation evening will take place next month for all the above awards.