Today's trip down memory lane takes us back 15 years to when a hard-working Dumbarton man was awarded an MBE from the Queen.

Here is how we told the story in the Reporter on Wednesday, January 14, 2004...

A FASLANE worker from Dumbarton awarded an MBE last week in the Queen’s New Year Honours List has been praised by his bosses.

Phil McCusker (48) is driver and house manager to base Commodore John Borley, who says Phil is ‘an ideal recipient’.

Commodore Borley said: “I am delighted for Phil. His versatility, energy and dedication are absolutely astonishing. “The base has an excellent workforce, and Phil exemplifies the grit and determination they bring to bear in support of the Royal Navy. “I am particularly pleased to see a civilian being recognised in this way.”

Phil himself said: “I would like to think this award reflects well on all the civilians who work at the base. They do a good job of keeping a vital part of our national defence system in tip top condition.”

Originally from the Gorbals, Phil moved to Dumbarton as a four year-old and started his working life as an apprentice butcher. After a spell as a driver with Appleyards in Helensburgh he joined the navy base as a butcher in 1980. He moved on to the motor pool and then became the Commodore’s driver, developing the job to such an extent that he also manages the Commodore’s residence, looks after VIP visitors, and supervises formal lunches and dinners.

Commodore Borley praised his work, stating: “He will turn his hand, with great gusto, to anything from hedge trimming to overseeing a formal dinner. “The intensity, care and great humour with which he works are really special.”

He lives with his partner of 30 years, Ann Marie Kerr, and is a well known member of the community. For 20 years he has carried out volunteer work in his spare time for the nuns who live in the town’s Carmelite Convent.