A Neilston man has been awarded East Renfrewshire’s citizen of the year for 2024 in recognition of his life-saving work as the coordinator of the Neilston and Uplawmoor community first responder group. Stephen Byars, a resident of Neilston for 25 years, has been honoured with the Provost Award for his exceptional contributions to the community’s health and safety. Byars has dedicated the past decade to voluntary work with the first responder group, ensuring public access defibrillators are maintained and readily available in the area.
The Provost Award by East Renfrewshire Council aims to acknowledge and celebrate long-standing volunteers who make a significant difference in the lives of others. Byars, an integral part of the first responder group since its establishment in 2014, spends most of his weekends responding to emergency calls across East Renfrewshire. With the majority of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occurring at home, Byars is committed to ensuring that community members can receive life-saving CPR before ambulance services arrive.
In a statement following the award ceremony, Byars expressed his delight at winning the accolade and highlighted the importance of volunteering and giving back to the community. The Neilston and Uplawmoor first responder group operates as a self-funded volunteer organisation in partnership with the Scottish Ambulance Service, providing crucial emergency response services to residents in East Renfrewshire and surrounding areas.
East Renfrewshire Provost Mary Montague commended Byars for his outstanding service over the past decade, enhancing emergency response capabilities and ultimately saving lives in the community. The Provost also acknowledged the record number of nominations received for citizen of the year in 2024, underscoring the significant impact of volunteers in supporting the residents of East Renfrewshire.
For those interested in volunteering as Community First Responders in their local area, more information can be found on the Scottish Ambulance Service website. Further details about the Neilston and Uplawmoor community first responder group can be accessed on their Facebook page. Byars’ dedication and selfless commitment to community service serve as an inspiring example of the positive impact individuals can have on the wellbeing of those around them.
In summary, Stephen Byars’ recognition as East Renfrewshire’s citizen of the year for 2024 highlights the importance of voluntary work and community service in enhancing the safety and wellbeing of residents. Byars’ dedication to serving his community through life-saving initiatives exemplifies the positive impact individuals can have through selfless contributions. His award is a testament to the value of volunteering and making a difference in the lives of others.