A BROUGHTY Ferry charity fundraiser has spoken of her shock and excitement after being named Dundee’s 2013 Citizen of the Year.
Joyce McIntosh, president of Ye Amphibious Ancient Bathing Association known as the Phibbies has helped raise thousands of pounds for local and national charities.
The 67-year-old organises the annual New Year’s Day Dook at Broughty Ferry harbour, which helps raise money for a variety of charities every year.
Joyce, who has two grown-up sons, Bruce and Robert, said she was “absolutely shocked” when she was told the good news.
“I know a lot of people in the city and they do things just the same as I do,” she said.
“I take a great interest in the city of Dundee. This is my home town. I’m very proud of all the things that are happening.
“I feel quite excited about the whole thing.
“I wasn’t expecting this. It was such a surprise to me. My family were absolutely astonished and they are very proud.”
“I will do everything I can to promote the city and do what I can to help and support people.”
Joyce, who works as a social worker for Dundee City Council, has participated in 28 marathons including New York and London races to support numerous good causes.
She also acts as a trustee in national charity Get Kids Going, which campaigns to give disabled children and young people the opportunity to participate in sport.
Joyce, an elder at Barnhill St Margaret’s Church, joined the Phibbies in 1981 and acted as secretary for 11 years before taking over as president.
She takes over the citizen of the year post from last year’s winner Charlie Kean, who founded children’s charity Kean’s Children’s Fund.
Lord provost Bob Duncan said: “I personally think that Joyce’s profile, both in swimming and all the other things she does, are great for the city.
“Joyce’s name is not just known in Dundee. She is known all over the country.
“She will be a good ambassador for the city and generally will be one of these people who will be an asset for Dundee.”
Jane Emmerson, chief executive of charity, Get Kids Going, said they were thrilled to see Joyce recognised for her hard work.
She said: “I think it is absolutely wonderful that she is getting this award.
“It is well deserved. They couldn’t have awarded it to anyone better.
“Joyce has been a trustee for the charity for two to three years and it involves a serious commitment.
“We are quite a high-profile charity in disability sport and we are delighted to have Joyce as one of our trustees.
“Before she was a trustee, she supported the charity by doing marathons.”
Shona Robison, Dundee East MSP and minister of Commonwealth Games and sport said she was “delighted” at Joyce’s award.
gogston@thecourier.co.uk