Vice Lord Lieutenant Betty McAtear has retired after 26 years of dedicated service in the Western Isles Lieutenancy.
Lord Lieutenant Iain Macaulay said he had known Betty since 1985 when she was manager of the Barra and Vatersay Citizen’s Advice Bureau and that he was immediately impressed by her “drive and commitment” to support and improve the circumstances of individuals and families who required advice and guidance, often at a time of crisis and concern for themselves and their families.
In her many roles across Barra, the Western Isles and Scotland, she has a track record of advocating strongly for the Barra and Vatersay community.
A native Gaelic speaker, she has been a regular contributor to Gaelic radio and TV programmes, including a significant and poignant contribution at the time of The late Queen’s death and the Coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Mr Macaulay said he reputation and involvement over decades in her local community is well established.
“She is an exemplary and inspirational person who is committed, first and foremost, to the community interest."
A colleague of McAtear for four decades on various voluntary and public bodies, Donald Martin, the former Lord Lieutenant, referred to her "sterling qualities and immeasurable contributions” to public service, with steadfast support from her husband Danny and their three daughters.
In her lieutenancy roles Betty has the “unique achievement of serving four of the Western Isles’ six Lord Lieutenants with distinction over her remarkable 26 years service to the Lieutenancy."
To mark her retirement the Lord Lieutenant presented McAtear with gifts and flowers, thanking her for her service and wished her a well deserved, long and enjoyable retirement. Additionally, her husband, Danny, received gifts for his encouragement and support over the years.
Vice Lord Lieutenant Betty McAtear retires from role
12 November 2024