Supergran Ruth is Guid Nychbur

Jun 19 2009 by Kieran West Brook, Dumfries Standard Friday

GRAN Ruth Emmerson has won the Standard-sponsored Guid Nychbur Award 2009.

The 70-year-old Locharbriggs resident beat scores of other nominees after impressing judges with her acts of kindness.

Speaking to the Standard after receiving the accolade, she said: “I’m very honoured to be the Guid Nychbur for 2009. It’s a very special award, but I’m a wee bit embarrassed too!

“I’m sure there are plenty of other people just as deserving as me.”

Ruth was nominated by her neighbour of 30 years, Gina Doyle, who felt she deserved recognition for all that she does for the community.

Ruth nursed Gina back to health after a leg operation and even offered to carry her up the stairs.

Gina explained that Ruth spends every Sunday morning picking up broken glass at the nearby play park.

In her letter of nomination to the Standard, Gina said: “Ruth is one of the most kind, helpful and thoughtful people I have ever met.

“Ruth is 70 this year and has spent her whole life devoted to others. I would like you to consider her for the award to show her how much we appreciate what she does.”

After the award ceremony, Gina added: “She’s a great neighbour and really deserves to be the Guid Nychbur! It’s what Guid Nychburris is all about, and she’s very special.”

Ruth has been looking after other people for most of her life, working as a nurse and carer in her younger days.

And since retiring, she has spent most of her time minding her two granddaughters while her daughter works. Ruth also likes to do her bit for the environment, cycling everywhere she goes.

And she also maintains the garden as her husband has been unable to since he fell ill earlier this year.

Ruth accepted her award at the reception of the Installation ceremony on Monday night at the Minerva Hall in Dumfries Academy where she earned a rapturous applause.