Freeman of Skye Honour For Portree Man
In recognition of his outstanding service to the community, Mr John Nicolson from Portree was granted the Freedom of Skye at a special ceremony held on Friday evening in the Skye Camanachd Social Club. Mr Nicolson, (85), known locally by his nick-name, “The Caley”, was joined at the presentation by his family, friends and representatives from local charities, clubs and organisations he has been involved in over the years.
Councillor Drew Millar welcomed guests and introduced the Convener of the Highland Council, Councillor Sandy Park, who read out the wording on the scroll which was then signed by Mr Nicolson and Councillor Millar. Councillor John Laing presented a gift and then Mr Nicolson took to the floor to give a short acceptance speech. His wife was then presented with a bouquet by Councillor Ian Renwick.
Skye-based musician and composer, Blair Douglas, composed a new piece of music to mark the ceremony so before Piper Hector Henderson performed “John Nicolson’s March To Freedom” for the first time, Blair presented John with a framed copy of the new musical score and all guests joined in with a special toast.
Mr Nicolson recently retired from serving for more than 30 years as a Community Councillor on Portree Community Council. Prior to that he served on the village council. He spent 14 years working as the barman of The Caledonian Hotel, where he got his nick-name, and also was the local school janitor for more than 14 years. He also found the time to perform duties as Court Officer until he retired aged 70.
After seeing active service in World War 2, Mr Nicolson joined the North Skye Branch of the British Legion, holding many committee positions over the last 45 years, He remains an active member and continues to be involved in arranging the annual Armistice Day programme. He has been a Committee Member and a Chairman of Skye Camanachd and still repairs shinty camans for the club. He has served on the Sports Council as Committee Member, Vice-Chair and then Chair for many years. The Highland Games Committee and the Playing Fields Committee also benefited from his long-term service and he has stewarded a host of events held on Skye including the Pipe Band Festival, the Half Marathon and Skye Week.
Councillor Millar said: “John has lived his working and retired years in service to he community and through his great efforts many peoples lives have been enriched. I am sure all the people he has served so diligently for many years, as well as family, neighbours and friends will want to join us in congratulating him on this great honour.”
Mr Nicolson joins an esteemed list of people who have received the Freedom of Skye including record-breaking round the world solo yachtswoman Dame Ellen MacArthur Dr Sorley MacLean, Dr John Ball and Mr David Noble.
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