North East Fife 'local hero' recognised for community work with Scottish Parliament invite

Richard Tough, who has an outstanding record of community and voluntary work, was the Lib Dem MSP’s guest for the occasion.

Richard serves as Trustee of the Tayport Community Trust, Director of Tayport Community Enterprises and was a driving force behind the creation and running of the Larick Centre.

He previously held a directorship and played a major role in transitioning Scott & Fyfe to an employee-owned business.

An avid wildlife photographer and conservationist, he frequently shares his knowledge of the Tentsmuir area and local birdlife, such as the White-Tailed Sea Eagles.

Richard is also the chair of Tayport Tennis Club, instrumental in starting up Tayport Table Tennis and is the match secretary for the Larick Liners table tennis team.

The opening ceremony has traditionally been held after each Scottish Parliament election, shortly before the parliament’s summer recess. MSPs and their chosen ‘local heroes’ gathered in Holyrood’s debating chamber to hear an address from King Charles and a number of musical and dramatic performances, including by young people from across the country. This was followed by a reception for all those who attended the ceremony.

Richard Tough said: “I was delighted to be chosen as the local hero for North East Fife and to be invited to attend the opening ceremony of the Scottish Parliament. I’m glad that voluntary and community work was such a major part of the ceremony.

“When Willie invited me to take part, I had to think carefully because I had already had the ringing of a white-tailed eagle in the diary, but I’m glad I accepted his offer, and it was a memorable experience.”

Willie Rennie added: “It was fantastic to welcome Richard to the Scottish Parliament as North East Fife’s local hero. He has done a substantial amount of good work for his community and good causes including the RSPB, Raptor Study Group, and I hope that being included in the opening ceremony for this session of the Scottish Parliament goes some way to recognising his contributions.

“The presence of local heroes from across Scotland is a special part of the opening ceremony. It is a reminder to MSPs of the good work which so many people do in our communities to make a difference to people’s lives, and it should be an inspiration as we take forward our work for the next five years."