Scottish Community Pharmacist Celebrated at Royal Garden Party
Published: 10/07/25
Mark Easton (NHS GRAMPIAN) at the Royal Garden Party
One of our Scottish community pharmacist, Mark Easton, has been recognised for their outstanding contribution to local healthcare by attending a Royal Garden Party at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
The invitation, which came through a nomination from one of the Deputy Lord Lieutenants of Moray, was extended in recognition of Mark’s commitment to serving the villages of Hopeman and Burghead over the past 20 years.
With a career spanning nearly four decades and 39 years on the pharmaceutical register, Mark remains modest about the recognition, saying:
“The whole nomination thing is a bit random to me. I’ve always seen myself as just doing my job. 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.”
Mark and his colleagues have championed the development of pharmaceutical services in the villages, embracing innovation where possible and always aiming to deliver consistent, high-quality care. Becoming an independent prescriber in 2011 proved particularly impactful, enabling the provision of a Pharmacy First Plus service. This has become a crucial service for the local population, especially after the withdrawal of General Medical Services (GMS) at the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’ve tried to shape services around the needs of our community and what we can safely and effectively deliver,” they explained. “Since GMS was withdrawn, the pharmacy has increasingly become the first port of call for patients.”
This recognition not only honours one pharmacist's dedication but also shines a light on the essential role that community pharmacy continues to play across Scotland, especially in remote and rural areas, where access to traditional medical services can be limited.
Community Pharmacy Scotland celebrates this well-deserved recognition and extends our congratulations to Mark. It’s a reflection of the values and commitment seen across the network every day, and we are proud to see such dedication to patient care honoured at the highest level.
One of our Scottish community pharmacist has been recognised for their outstanding contribution to local healthcare by attending a Royal Garden Party at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.