CROSSGATES man Graham Bennet spent almost two decades as a Depute Lieutenant of Fife and said he found it a very rewarding role.

Mr Bennet told Cowdenbeath Rotary Club that when he retired from his role of Assistant Chief Constable of Fife Constabulary in 2001, he was a little surprised to be asked if he would like to become one of the deputes to the Lord Lieutenant of Fife, Her Majesty the Queen's representative in the county.

He said: "The Lieutenant then, Margaret Dean, asked me if I would like to take on the role and I wondered what it would entail but I was soon very pleased I agreed to take it on.

"I found myself involved in a lot of very happy occasions and meeting some amazing people."

Mr Bennet found himself ensuring that Diamond Wedding couples received their cards from Her Majesty as did 100 year-olds and he also was involved in putting people forward to attend the annual Royal Garden Party, at Holyrood, each summer.

"I found the 60th wedding anniversaries and 100 year-olds particularly interesting and getting the opportunity to meet such interesting people was a privilege," he added.

He was also involved in presenting Queen's Scouts Awards and also awards for the Boys Brigade and Guides.

Mr Bennet concluded: "I thought that my time in the police was very interesting but getting the chance to deal with so many people in very happy situations, was a complete privilege."