A BUSINESS leader from Kilcreggan has been named in the New Year honours list for 2019.

Graham Bell will receive an OBE in recognition of his leadership in developing, supporting and promoting social enterprise.

The 64-year-old was CEO at the Kibble Group, based in Paisley, for 24 years, leading its growth from a small local organisation to one of the country’s major social enterprises.

The charity has since gained international recognition as Scotland’s specialist centre for young people at risk, offering a range of services to children with complex social, emotional and educational needs.

Graham, who is also a qualified social worker, is now a founding director of The Leader (Scotland), which supports new or experienced leaders with their personal or business growth.

And he told the Advertiser that despite his vast experience, the announcement of the award was unexpected.

“I first found out about four or five weeks ago, so it was hard keeping that secret,” he said.

“I was very surprised and delighted.

“Before my first job I volunteered in youth clubs and worked with a lot of young people. Now I have made the move from helping people to helping others help people, which I believe is an important part of business.”

Graham was also the board chair of the Scottish Social Enterprise Academy, guiding its evolution from a small national organisation to an international company working in 10 countries.

His skills in the sector have taken him around the world in different roles, however he is still active in the peninsula and maintains a close relationship with his community as a board member at Cove Burgh Hall.

And he is showing no signs of slowing down, admitting the award of an OBE provides extra encouragement - if any was required - to continue the good work.

Graham added: “I’m working to help leaders now, what is called an ‘encore career’ for older people who are not quite ready to retire yet.

“You never receive these honours for what you do yourself, it’s all about the team.

“I have been privileged to work with talented people in a wide variety of settings.

“This award highlights the power of good business and committed people working together to make their community and country a better place.”

Meanwhile, two senior Royal Navy officers based at HM Naval Base Clyde were among the recipients of military awards in the New Year honours list.

Rear Admiral John Weale was made a Companion of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath (CB), while Commander Neil Lamont received an OBE.

Rear Admiral Weale, Scotland’s most senior naval officer and the head of the submarine service, has been assistant chief of naval staff for submarines, and Flag Officer Scotland and Northern Ireland (FOSNI), since 2012, and Rear Admiral (Submarines) since 2015. He was made an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday honours list in 2009.

Commander Lamont, who was born in Dundee in 1968, joined the Royal Navy in 1986 and volunteered for submarine service three years later.

He was chosen for the Navy’s submarine command course in 2004, and is currently commanding officer of the nuclear deterrent submarine HMS Vengeance (Starboard).