Aberdeenshire grandfather thought coronation invite was a scam

An Aberdeenshire grandfather receiving a British Empire Medal mistakenly believed his award was a scam.

An Aberdeenshire grandfather is receiving a British Empire Medal after he helped set up a call centre for food parcels during lockdown.

72-year-old John Anderson, a retired firefighter from Fraserburgh, initially believed his invitation to the King’s coronation was a scam.

However, after his police officer son-in-law verified the invite as real, John started making plans to enjoy his trip to London.

'It's a Privilege'

John says:  "It’s quite a privilege because I won’t see another one and I’ve never seen one.

“There’s a lot more higher up people than me, film stars, lords and ladies… to be asked is quite an honour.

In the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, Mr Anderson was among those who set up a call centre where those who had Covid could call for a food parcel and have it delivered to their home.

Following this, he also set up a community food pantry in Fraserburgh which he said there was a great need for.

Mr Anderson was also awarded the Queen’s Fire Service Medal back in 2000, an accolade he said he was “shocked” and “chuffed” to receive.

He’s planning on flying down and see a show before attending the coronation.