When he first started working at a north-east fish and chip shop, Stuart Devine could not have imagined that 30 years later he would be made an MBE for doing what he loves.
The 44-year-old was still at school when he began working at The Ashvale as a dishwasher, and had different career plans in mind.
But after working closely with managing director John Low, he decided it was a career worth pursuing.
In 1985, he became a trainee manager at The Ashvale, and 10 years later was named operations director of the award-winning chain, which has 10 outlets across the north-east, including Elgin, Banchory, Ellon and Aberdeen.
And today, the father-of-two has been made an MBE for services to the seafood industry and charity.
Mr Devine, of Dawson Drive, Westhill, said: “It came as quite a big surprise – a nice surprise.
“The Ashvale was a part-time job, I went as a dishwasher and it’s just gone from there.
“I realised it was worth a chance, and John and I have been working together all these years. Then the awards came in for the fish and chips, and the business has grown from there.
“To get recognised in this manner for doing something you love is pretty great. To say it’s been a quick 30 years is an understatement – it has flown by.”
Mr Devine is also a qualified trainer and assessor for the Sea Fish Industry Authority (SFIA) Customer Service Award, and vice-chairman of the Scottish Seafood Training Association.
He also promotes the use of sustainably-caught fish from well-managed fisheries, and is a committee member of the Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen.
The Ashvale Group also host regular fundraisers, and Mr Devine said that to date the business has helped local groups, schools, charities and causes raise more than £600,000.
“We started doing a lot of fundraising a couple of years ago, our fish and chip nights are an overwhelming success. We help groups from all around the area.
“Some weeks we’re doing five or six in a week, and all the staff are involved.
“Whether it’s £300 for a small group or £3,000 for a dance school it doesn’t matter, the fact that we’re in a situation to help these groups is wonderful.”