Sadie was on the crime prevention panel that started up the victim support scheme in Bellshill, a panel that included local police officer Andy Fowler who now works for South Lanarkshire Council's anti-social behaviour investigation team.

Andy joined Sadie and Bill along with Victim Support Scotland chief executive David McKenna, Victim Support North Lanarkshire chair Brian Hargadon, members of the committee, family, long-serving volunteers and staff from the local victim and witness services to thank them both for their long service.

Sadie was one of the first volunteers trained to deliver the support service to victims of crime. She was on the very first training programme 22 years ago and Bill joined the following year.

In addition, the same year as Bill joined their daughter Ann Eadie became Bellshill Victim Support co-ordinator and her daughter Elaine Reynolds has been a service delivery volunteer for 14 years.

Much as they are both very committed to Victim Support, circumstances have prevented them from continuing as Sadie's health has deteriorated in the last few years and Bill did not like to leave her at home alone.

However, they continue to support the work by helping with fundraising events when possible.

Acting area co-ordinator Mary Watt said: "It is thanks to volunteers like Sadie and Bill that we are able to continue to offer a service helping people affected by crime. Their commitment and dedication to people who were victims of crime is commendable."