A BARRHEAD grandad was given a royal reception as he visited Buckingham Palace to receive an MBE for his services to the community.

Willie Dougray, 81, has dedicated decades of his life to helping others through his work at East Renfrewshire Citizens’ Advice Bureau (ERCAB).

That sense of community spirit earned him recognition in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

And it was a proud day for dad-of-two Willie as he travelled to London to receive his MBE from Princess Anne.

To make the occasion extra special, he was joined at Buckingham Palace by his wife Eleanor and granddaughter Ainsley.

Willie told the Barrhead News: “It was quite an experience. I had a marvellous day and my wife and granddaughter thoroughly enjoyed themselves too.

“When we arrived at the palace, I was parted from Eleanor and Ainsley, who were taken to the ballroom, and I was led down a beautiful corridor to another room.

“I was a little apprehensive at first but I was made very comfortable by Princess Anne, who took the time to talk to every single recipient individually.

“We were called out in groups of 10 and I was in the second last batch. Some people were even being knighted. It was startling how efficient the whole process was.”

Willie was one of 77 people from across the UK who collected honours at the ceremony.

And, after returning home, he was delighted to show his medal to colleagues at ERCAB, where he has been chairman for more than 30 years.

Willie said: “I took my MBE to the bureau and Theresa O’Hara, the manager, was the first to see it. Then I showed it to the other staff members.

“The rest of my family are on holiday in Italy, so they were unable to come down to Buckingham Palace with me, but they’re coming home soon and I look forward to showing them the award.”

Bob Flynn, who is a board member at ERCAB, is full of praise for the efforts made by Willie to support people in the Barrhead area.

He said: “It’s fantastic that Willie has been recognised for the work he has done in the community and especially at the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, where he has worked for many years.

“Willie has been a great help to the board, volunteers and staff members over the years and we are all absolutely delighted for him.”

More than 7,000 people were given help by the dedicated team of staff and volunteers at ERCAB, based in Main Street, Barrhead, last year.