A respected and much-loved member of the Maybole community has been formally honoured with a British Empire Medal (BEM) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the voluntary sector.

The presentation took place on Saturday 4 July 2026, by Sheriff Iona McDonald, Lord Lieutenant of Ayrshire and Arran, who attended as the personal representative of His Majesty The King. The ceremony brought together local dignitaries, invited guests and members of the community to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Alexander Joseph Kelly. Local dignataries, Bishop Frank duggan and the Rev. David Gemmell also attended.

Alex was named in the King’s Birthday Honours List earlier this year for his services to voluntary work across South Ayrshire and Scotland. His award reflects decades of unwavering commitment to helping others and strengthening his local community.

Following early retirement due to health challenges, Alex chose not to step back but instead dedicated himself fully to voluntary service. Drawing on his experience as a lifesaver and swimming coach, he has played a key role in supporting and leading numerous organisations, becoming a central figure in community life.

Over more than 20 years, Alex has contributed to 14 organisations, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication. He has served as Treasurer and Chair of the South Ayrshire Crime Prevention Panel for an impressive 36 years, helping deliver safety education to thousands of schoolchildren annually.

His support for veterans has also been significant. As Chair of the Maybole Royal British Legion and Area Organiser for Poppyscotland, Alex has ensured continued support for the armed forces community, maintaining a strong and active local branch.

Alex’s impact extends beyond leadership roles. He has helped raise £50,000 to restore the Maybole Sports Pavilion and continues to generate over £5,000 each year through the Maybole Charity Shop. His efforts bring both financial support and a sense of unity to the town.

Well known for spreading joy, Alex is also Maybole’s much-loved Santa Claus, organising annual Christmas dinners for older residents. In a remarkable personal commitment, he has funded and maintained the town’s Christmas lights for over 30 years.

His contribution to young people is equally significant. Through crime prevention initiatives, he has reached around 2,000 young people each year, while also teaching more than 3,000 children to swim—providing a vital life skill that has lasting benefits.

Alex’s dedication has previously been recognised with national honours, including Poppyscotland’s highest accolade, The President’s Award, and the Royal Lifesaving Association’s Service Medal.

Behind these achievements lies a story of resilience. Despite facing adversity in his early life, Alex has channelled his experiences into a lifelong commitment to supporting others. His compassion, determination and selflessness continue to inspire those around him.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Lord Lieutenant described Alex as “the heart of his community,” praising his extraordinary service and the lasting impact he has made.