A well-known figure who has been part of the rural Stirling tourism sector for more than four decades was left stunned after being recognised in the King’s Birthday List.
James Fraser's Recognition
James Fraser has been involved in the tourism of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park with various organisations across his career, including stints with Visit Scotland and chairing the Friends of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs charity for 13 years.
His current role has seen him take over stewardship as CEO and lead trustee for the Sir Walter Scott Steamship Trust, aimed at preserving the future of the 126-year-old vessel as a tourist attraction for decades to come.
The steamship had faced jeopardy after major damage was discovered to its internal structure, but James and the committed team at the Trust led a £750,000 fundraising campaign to make the repairs and get the ship back on the water once again.
He has also overseen recent improvement to the tourist offering at Loch Katrine - including the installation of an acclaimed scenic viewing tower and more recently, a rainforest trail through the loch’s nearby wilderness.
He has received a British Empire Medal in the list announced on Friday for his contribution to tourism in Stirling and the Steamship.
But big-hearted James was keen to divert the attention on to some of the staff who have helped him along the way.
He said: “I was surprised when I found out about the award, but delighted to accept and reflect the hard work done by the Steamship team over the ten years or so.
“We have managed to raise several million pounds over the years for the Steamship and to allow more people to enjoy the heart of the Trossachs.
“It has been a great privilege to preserve a special part of Scotland’s history with the ship and the scenic tower and trail we’ve installed in recent years show that we’re always innovating.
“I’ve been involved for 40 years in this part of the world, including back with the Callander Youth Project and also consultation and charity work.
“Getting the ship back sailing is a real boost as it is a real jewel in the crown for the National Park and we’ve managed to strengthen Loch Katrine as a tourist destination.”
Joanna Morrow's MBE
Joining James on the prestigious list is a senior leader at Stirling University, who has been recognised with an MBE.
Joanna Morrow, who has the role of Deputy Secretary and Executive Director of Student, Academic and Corporate Services at the university, has worked at the University since 2004.
She has been recognised for her efforts in transforming the student experience - including ensuring all students were graduated during the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.
She said: “I feel honoured to receive this recognition for my work in the education sector and for the university in particular. It is such a privilege to work for a university that seeks to make a positive impact on the communities that we serve.
“I have enjoyed every step, supported by my fantastic colleagues, and am inspired every day by our talented students. What motivates me is helping to make a difference to our community at a university where people transform their lives and the lives of others.”
Professor Sir Gerry McCormac, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Stirling, added: “Across 21 years of leadership at the university, Joanna Morrow has consistently championed students and their ability to excel.
“Her dynamism and passion to create a supportive, inclusive and nurturing environment is one reason that so many of our alumni credit their time at Stirling as being transformative.”
Other Honourees
Advanced Neonatal Nurse Practitioner at NHS Forth Valley, Anne Moylan, was also awarded an MBE for a career spanning more than 45 years in helping offer top care as a midwife and neonatal nurse - before passing on her experience to midwives in Vietnam.
There was also a British Empire Medal for Morna Ferguson from Aberfoyle for her work in supporting Girlguiding and charity work.
In a tribute posted on their social media, Girlguiding West Lanarkshire were among those to offer their congratulations.
They wrote: “This is a truly well-deserved honour that celebrates the lasting difference she has made to the lives of so many girls and young women.
“Huge congratulations, Morna — a wonderful achievement and so richly deserved.”
