Stonehaven Rotarian Frank Budd was presented with a Paul Harris Award at last Wednesday’s weekly meeting of Stonehaven Rotary Club.The Paul Harris Fellowship is the highest honour Rotary can make and is  awarded not only to Rotarians but often to members of the public in recognition of their outstanding service and contributions to the community, exemplifying the highest ideal in Rotary in placing “Service Above Self.”

Frank came to Stonehaven in the early 70’s initially as a Sales Manager for Avery. He went into the hotel and catering business when he took over the Marine Hotel in Stonehaven. From there he went on to own and run the Lairhillock Inn, followed by the Commodore Hotel and then once again Lairhillock. This was followed by a brief foray into the world of gas retail where he was co- owner of Gas World in Aberdeen. For the last decade or so he has run a successful B&B in Stonehaven with his wife Anne. 

Frank came to Stonehaven in the early 70’s initially as a Sales Manager for Avery. He went into the hotel and catering business when he took over the Marine Hotel in Stonehaven. From there he went on to own and run the Lairhillock Inn, followed by the Commodore Hotel and then once again Lairhillock. This was followed by a brief foray into the world of gas retail where he was co- owner of Gas World in Aberdeen. For the last decade or so he has run a successful B&B in Stonehaven with his wife Anne. 
Frank came to Stonehaven in the early 70’s initially as a Sales Manager for Avery. He went into the hotel and catering business when he took over the Marine Hotel in Stonehaven. From there he went on to own and run the Lairhillock Inn, followed by the Commodore Hotel and then once again Lairhillock. This was followed by a brief foray into the world of gas retail where he was co- owner of Gas World in Aberdeen. For the last decade or so he has run a successful B&B in Stonehaven with his wife Anne. 
Frank has been a Rotarian for 20 years and during that time he has made a very significant contribution to all areas of the organisation in various roles including that of President in 2015/16. He has been actively involved in the International and Foundation committee and the community committee and he has been a key supporter and organiser of the annual Kids Out event which brings a great deal of happiness to children with additional support needs throughout Aberdeenshire. 
He supports all Rotary fundraising, activities, but perhaps his most significant contribution is his organisation of the very successful Beaujolais Runs where his tireless attention to detail resulted in a great success in raising thousand of pounds for Rotary projects. Perhaps, his greatest contribution for Rotary in the community has been his unceasing support and encouragement for the Renal Dialysis Unit, soon to be opened at the Community Hospital. This support has resulted in Stonehaven Rotary Club raising, and/or, encouraging others to contribute to the target of over £1m pounds required for the funding of this facility.
As well as all his achievements in Rotary, Frank had time to spend on other initiatives in the community. During the last two or three decades he has been member and Trustee of Stonehaven Town Partnership (STP), member and Chair of Stonehaven and District Business Association, the Stonehaven and District Tourism Group, and the Stonehaven Round Table. During his involvement with these organisations he has done a great deal to enhance the attraction of Stonehaven as a place for tourists to visit, but perhaps his most notable achievements are raising thousands of pounds for local causes in organising 4 Beaujolais Runs in his time with Round Table and perhaps his greatest contribution was when, as a trustee of STP, he was co-leader of the sub-committee that was instrumental in negotiating the takeover of the Queen Elizabeth 2 caravan park from Council ownership to private ownership. This has been great success as it has become a much more attractive venue and the revenues have enabled STP to help and support many local good causes.
Overall, as a leader, member, and supporter of many local groups and good causes he has contributed a tremendous amount to the community in general, but to Rotary, in particular, and, as such, is an ideal candidate for the prestigious Paul Harris award.