An elated crowd rose to their feet as Davie and Marie made their way to the stage to receive the night’s final award.

“I wasn’t expecting this,” an emotional Davie expressed. “This is more than we ever could have asked for.”

While in their role maintaining the Association’s offices in north west Glasgow, they learned about Queens Cross’ Wellbeing for Young People’s service and wanted to help. 

Davie explained: “It came to near Christmas time and the young people didn’t seem as happy as normal kids are at Christmas. 

“I dressed up as Santa Claus and filled a bag with selection boxes and turned up on Christmas Day. The kids were all laughing and that was the first thing I did.”

Since then, they have spent over 10 years raising money for the service which provides a home and support to young people aged 16-25 who are at risk of or have experienced homelessness. 

Their fundraising events have brought in more than £30,000, with their efforts recognised by the Association at the showpiece ceremony.

Taking place every two years, the Pride of Queens Cross Awards at the Association’s way of recognising outstanding achievements in the community by employees, residents, community groups and local businesses. 

A total of 33 groups and individuals were shortlisted at the awards across eight categories. Other winners included Braeside Community Garden in the community activity award for creating a welcoming space for locals. Abacus Coffee & Education, who combine their coffee shop with a safe and affordable tutoring space for young people, were also recognised in the local business category.

“Davie and Marie have been an asset to Queens Cross over the past decade, and their fundraising efforts for young people has been inspirational,” said Queens Cross chief executive, Shona Stephen.

“They represent everything the Association stands for in making Queens Cross and its communities a great place to live and work, and I’d like to congratulate them on being deservedly recognised for their hard work and dedication.

“I’d also like to extend my congratulations to all this year’s winners and shortlisted. It reinforces for me the true sense of community we have here at Queens Cross with people continually going above and beyond to help others in many different ways.”

Construction company Urban Union was the main sponsor of the event which took place at the voco Grand Central Hotel in central Glasgow.

Neil McKay, managing director at Urban Union, said: “The positive impact of community should never be underestimated. As the delivery partner for Queens Cross of over 600 new homes at Hamiltonhill over the next ten years, we are proud to support the Pride of Queens Awards. As a business we strive to leave a positive impact on, and in, the communities where we work, and we know that comes down to people, existing tenants and those who will be part of the future neighbourhoods.

“Each group and individual recognised this evening has made a valuable contribution to enhance the lives of others and on behalf of Urban Union I’d like to congratulate the winers and all of those shortlisted.”