A Moray couple who have “worked tirelessly” for good causes across the region have been invited to attend the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Martin and Fiona Birse have been asked to attend the couple’s big day at Windsor Castle on May 19 by the Lord Lieutenant of Moray, Grenville Johnston.
Mrs Birse, 60, was a founding director of the Elgin Youth Development Group, which offers support to young people through after-school clubs, holiday programmes and employment assistance.
And her husband Mr Birse, 61, has managed the Pitgaveny Estate Farms north-east of Elgin for the past 32 years, and is currently the president of the Highlands and Islands branch of the National Farmer’s Union.
The couple will be part of a group of 1,200 people from across Britain who were nominated for their contributions to their local communities.
The pair were told of the happy news last week, when the Lord Lieutenant personally delivered their invitation at their home.
Mrs Birse said: “To be honest, we thought it was a hoax at first.
“I couldn’t believe it when Grenville came around with the invitation, I thought he must have been mistaken, but we are in fact going to the royal wedding.
“It is an absolute honour and a privilege to be able to represent the people of Moray.
“We’re very excited, it’s truly going to be a once in a life time trip, and a day I’m sure we will never, ever forget.”
Mr Johnston said: “I am delighted that Martin and Fiona Birse will represent Moray at this happy and historic event in Windsor Castle.
“Both of them have worked tirelessly for various charities, especially those involving young people.
“Martin has always been enthusiastic in promoting the need to educate young people about the farming industry, through his work with the Royal Northern Countryside Initiative.
“Fiona was instrumental in the setting up of Elgin Youth Development Group in 1998, and was a director and chairman for 17 years before taking on the role of social enterprise development manager.
“Before that she was involved in the Scouting movement for 10 years.”
