Renowned Lochalsh piper and Lewis lifeboat stalwart both honoured in Queen's birthday list

There will be delight in Kyle of Lochlash this week with news that local piping legend, Iain MacFadyen, has been awarded the BEM in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours.

 

Mr MacFadyen, now aged 86, has received the honour for services to piping in Scotland after a 70-year career that has seen him perform at events and competitions at home and abroad, as well as enjoying a recording career.

 

His solo competition record of successes is probably unmatched, historically or in recent times.

 

Born in Glasgow in 1935, Iain's Highland parents had settled in Govan and like his three brothers, he took up the pipes, aged 12, being taught by his father.

 

Prior to his appointment in 1972 to his area schools teaching post, the Skye

 

and Lochalsh area had lost much of its piping heritage.

 

But after taking up the job, Mr MacFadyen lost no time in reigniting interest in traditional music in the schools, going far above the expectations of a salaried teacher.

 

An inspirational teacher, he continues his lifelong involvement with piping in his current role at the National Centre of Excellence in Traditional Music at Plockton.

 

He told the Lochaber Times of his delight at the award of a BEM, but not so much for himself: 'I am absolutely delighted and can't quite take it in.

 

'But not so much for myself but more for the spotlight it shines on piping in the local area. That's what's especially good about it.'

 

Also honoured from the Lochaber Times circulation area was John Jamieson MacLennan, from the Isle of Lewis, who receives the MBE for voluntary services to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

 

Mr MacLennan, 72, is chairman of the Lifeboat Management Group at Stornoway Lifeboat Station.