A BROUGHTON stalwart has been recognised for more than 50 years of work for the community.

Mary Brownlie was presented with a British Empire Medal (BEM) at a packed Broughton Village Hall last Sunday, after being recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in June. 

Family and friends gathered to celebrate with Mary, who was the president of the Scottish Women’s Institute in Broughton for over 20 years.

She has also held many positions, including president, vice-president, and treasurer of the Broughton Horticultural Society, and also served as treasurer of the John Buchan Society until its move to Peebles in 2012.

Mary was a Justice of the Peace for more than 30 years and has raised money for charities by opening her garden to the public and organising coffee mornings. 

Together with her late husband Neil, the pair also ran the Broughton Village Store for many years.

She was joined by her two sisters at the special event, and her grandson braved the wintry weather to make the 160-mile journey down from Aviemore in the Highlands with his children.

Mary’s medal was presented on behalf of the Queen by the Lord Lieutenant for Tweeddale, Sir Hew Strachan.