A FORMER Evening Times Scotswoman of the Year finalist received an MBE this week in recognition of her inspirational work supporting people with learning disabilities.

Blanche Nicolson, who has been the driving force behind Hansel in Ayrshire for most of her working life, chose to accept the accolade at the charity’s base in Symington so her friends and colleagues could celebrate with her.

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The charity’s managing director, Gerry Lindsay, said: “It was typical of Blanche to want a ceremony which included the people she has worked with and supported over the years.

“There was a real mix of people there, from colleagues over the years to the families of people we have supported here at Hansel.

“It was a lovely day, and there was a really touching moment during her thank-you speech when she interacted directly with some of the people Hansel supports today.”

He added: “That sums up Blanche’s approach to her role here, and to her life in general.

“Everyone is equal and everyone is included.

“It was a fantastic, formal ceremony – but done the Hansel way.”

Blanche’s parents set up the charity more than 50 years ago, because Blanche’s sister Lindy had learning difficulties and they were keen to change the way disabled people were viewed and treated.

Her mother, Isabel Murdoch, is a former Evening Times Scotswoman of the Year and Blanche was nominated for the title in 2012, narrowly missing out to burns survivor and charity champion Erin McNeill.

After starting out as a volunteer for Hansel, Blanche became an employee and eventually a director, breathing new life into the way the charity developed its services.

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The charity is now one of the west of Scotland’s leading social care providers, offering a range of services to people living with disabilities.

Blanche retired in August at a typically low-key affair at the charity’s HQ

“We know Blanche does not like to be centre of attention, so rather than a formal ceremony with speeches and carriage clocks, we had a party, with live music, and it was lovely,” added Gerry.

Although Blanche retired in August, she will remain as a non-executive director until next year, when she plans to move to Edinburgh to be closer to her daughter and grandchildren.

At that point, she will become patron of the charity she has loved and guided throughout most of her working life.

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Managing director Gerry Lindsay summed it up.

“We will miss her, of course, but Blanche’s bond with Hansel is a unique and lasting one,” he said.