Wilma Milligan was recognised in the New Years Honours List last December for her services to charity and food poverty and  became a Member of the Order of the British Empire or as it is more often referred to an MBE. She was presented with the Medal in a special ceremony in Maybole on Saturday 30th May 2026 by the Lord Lieutenant of Ayrshire and Arran.

 

At the ceremony Lord Lieutenant said “It is my great privilege to be here today to recognise Wilma whose compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment have transformed the lives of so many across South Ayrshire. I am particularly pleased that she has chosen this venue rather than Holyrood House or Buckingham Palace to receive her Medal. I am also pleased that so many of her friends, acquaintances and other members of the community or as Wilma calls them “hidden heroes” have managed to attend, as I am sure that this means a lot to Wilma”

 

“Her story is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make. Through compassion, determination, and an unshakeable belief in helping others, she has improved the health, wellbeing, and prospects of countless individuals and families.

It is with great respect and admiration that we recognise her today. She is truly an inspiration to us all.”