A Scottish community pharmacist has been honoured for his “outstanding contribution to local healthcare” at a Royal event (July 10). 

Community Pharmacy Scotland (CPS) sent its congratulations to Parkhead Pharmacy’s Mark Easton for the “well-deserved recognition” after serving the villages of Hopeman and Burghead in Moray, near Inverness, over the past 20 years. 

Easton said he had “always seen myself as just doing my job” after being nominated by the vice lord-lieutenant of Moray Lucy Mackenzie. 

Read more: Pharmacist becomes GP honorary fellow 

“The whole nomination thing is a bit random to me,” he said. “But I’m happy to support the community pharmacy agenda wherever possible, because I understand this isn’t just about me, it’s about recognising what so many of our colleagues do every working day.  

“I am one of many,” he added. 

CPS said since Easton became an independent prescriber in 2011 the qualification “proved particularly impactful” as it helped to grow the Pharmacy First Plus service that has helped to deal with common conditions and reduce pressure on general practice. 

Read more: ‘Pinnacle of my career’: LPC chair honoured in King’s birthday list  

It added this was “crucial” for the local population since the “withdrawal of general medical services (GMS) at the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic”. 

Easton said: “Since GMS was withdrawn, the pharmacy has increasingly become the first port of call for patients. 

“We’ve tried to shape services around the needs of our community and what we can safely and effectively deliver.” 

Read more: Two pharmacists and OTC chief recognised in King’s New Year honours list  

Easton attended the Royal Garden Party on July 1 to receive his honour, hosted at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh by King Charles III. 

The event celebrates Scottish culture, achievement and community and around 8,000 people are invited to celebrate their work. 

It comes as C+D chatted to a Scottish pharmacist in May about the reality of running a community pharmacy in a rural location.