Ian recognised for years of support

Ian, who is 92, has devoted many years to helping people in Lanarkshire without any thought of payment as he carries out the work purely on a voluntary basis.

Ian’s late daughter Fiona had learning difficulties and he was grateful to SOL for their support to her. Ian was also determined that Fiona and her friends had the best possible life.

He worked for many years fund-raising for SOL and was a voice for people with support needs and has gained the informal but affectionate title of Mr SOL.

His work has been recognised by Motherwell-based SOL who have made him their first Honorary Patron.

Gerry Donnelly of SOL explained: “We recognised the hard work, determination and inspirational qualities of Ian MacKinnon by making him an honorary patron of the organisation, the first in SOL’s history. Ian is a well known face throughout Lanarkshire, after many years of fund-raising and being the voice for people with support needs.

“Ian has also had numerous dealings with the council over the years, sometimes viewed as an ally and sometimes being the voice of opposition, but always a man who has stood up for what he believed in.

“He also served for many years as a trustee of SOL, supporting and giving sound advice to organisational culture and development. We just felt that a man who has contributed so much to his community, with several different organisations, should be recognised for his work”

Ian was joined at his surprise celebration by friends and family who travelled from Australia and by the SOL board and North Lanarkshire Director of Housing and Social Work Services Duncan McKay.