Margaret Laidlaw (75), pictured, of Aytonlea, North Road, was presented with an Outstanding Achievement Award from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).

President of UNICEF UK, Lord Paddy Ashdown, the former Liberal Democrat leader, said all her work for the world's children was "extremely appreciated."

He praised the "incredible work" done by the Dunbar branch which she founded 21 years ago.

Mr Ashdown said: "It takes great energy and inspiring leadership to keep a group thriving."

He added: "We need volunteers like you to continue to enthuse and inspire so that we can reach more vulnerable children in need.

"It gives me great pleasure to thank you personally for all that you have done for the world's children, we are extremely grateful."

To send cash-aid to help young victims of the Haiti earthquake disaster is a priority for the group which has organised a 'Love from Dunbar UNICEF to Haiti' Valentine hamper. Contributions for the hamper, on a romantic theme, can be made at Stenhouses Crafty Plants in Lawson Place. There's the chance to win the hamper by taking part in a wild treasure hunt at 50p a go.

The draw will take place at Stenhouses at 11am on February 13 during a knitting bee when coffee will also be served.

For a £1 entrance fee, those taking part will be given a pair of knitting needles and some wool to make bonnets for a premature baby unit. The money raised will be donated to UNICEF for Haiti.

Donations can also be made at Pik'n'Choose at 99 High Street, Dunbar, to help provide water, food, care, immunisation against measels and the DPT vaccines for diptheria, whooping cough and tetanus in Haiti.

Staff Photo: 05/02/10/ELN/LAIDLAW2