Seven Scots, including police officers and firefighters, are the first to be awarded the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross for their sacrifices.

Seven Scots, including police officers and firefighters, will be among the first to receive the newly introduced Elizabeth Emblem, an award created to honour public servants who lost their lives in the line of duty. This emblem serves as the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross, which recognises members of the Armed Forces who have died in service, either in action or due to terrorism.

The award aims to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of those in professions such as policing, firefighting, and healthcare, and the first recipients include individuals whose families have waited decades for this recognition. Seven of the 30 honorees are from Scotland, with their relatives set to be awarded the emblem.

Among those being remembered is Pc George Taylor, who was killed while on patrol in November 1976. Pc Taylor was attacked by two escapees from the State Hospital at Carstairs in Lanarkshire. His widow, Sally Taylor, will receive the emblem on his behalf. Additionally, the award will also honour Neil MacLellan, a nursing officer killed alongside a patient in the same incident, whose son, Archibald MacLellan, will accept the recognition.

Another recipient is firefighter William Crocket, who tragically died in an explosion at the Cheapside Street Whisky Bond in Glasgow on March 28, 1960. More than 60 years later, his son William Cruickshank, who was only six years old at the time, will receive the Elizabeth Emblem. Cruickshank, now 71 and living in the Cotswolds, expressed his pride in the award, although he lamented that it would have been meaningful for his late mother to have received it instead.

Further honorees include firefighter Dudley Grant, who died in 1965, police constable Edward Barnett, who passed away in 1970, detective sergeant William Hunt, who died in 1983, and police constable Lewis Fulton, who was killed in 1994. The families of these heroes will also receive the emblem later this year from the King.

The design of the Elizabeth Emblem incorporates a rosemary wreath, symbolising remembrance, encircling a Tudor Crown. The inscription reads “For A Life Given In Service,” reflecting the deep gratitude owed to these individuals for their ultimate sacrifice.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed the importance of never forgetting those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect others, acknowledging that while families cannot replace their loved ones, the Elizabeth Emblem serves as a fitting tribute. Scottish Secretary Ian Murray echoed these sentiments, recognising the selfless bravery of these seven public servants and offering heartfelt thanks to their families for the courage and dedication shown in their service.

This new recognition underscores the nation’s appreciation for the individuals who risked everything to safeguard their communities, ensuring that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.