Royal appointment for Kilwinning man Michael Kirkum

And he revealed King Charles asked him what tartan his kilt was!

Michael, who raises huge amounts for the Crosshouse Children's Charity, said: "It was a really good day, and at the same time a very humbling experience.

"There were 8,000 people there and I was one of the few who got to shake hands with the King.

(Image: Michael Kirkum)

"He was very softly spoken and the experience was so surreal. Jamie-Lee got to shake hands with him too and that made her day.

"He asked me about my kilt, which was provided for me by Ian of Clyde Kilts.

"I was delighted to attend not just for myself, but my daughter - and it keeps the charity back in the public eye as well.

Michael and Jamie Lee head to the party (Image: Michael Kirkum)

"It was humbling to be invited and I send my thanks to the people who nominated me for this honour."

The event was one of three garden parties held by the monarch each summer, each one aimed at recognising and rewarding public service. 

After yet another fantastic year of fundraising for the Crosshouse Children's Fund, it was no surprise to see Michael on the list.

That was, of course, for everyone except Michael, who was shocked when he saw the invite come through from The Lord Chamberlain, on the instructions of the King.

He commented: “I was like 'what’s he wanting?' – I just thought it was for the wrong person altogether.

“This last year things have really spiralled, and maybe it’s a reflection of that.”

(Image: Michael Kirkum)

It is also a major boost for Michael personally, after bad weather put paid to his plans to attend the Point of Light Awards earlier this year.

Michael had earlier been chosen for a Point of Light award by the former Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak - though, not unlike his reaction to the garden party invitation, he initially thought it was a wind-up and hung up the phone after the first call.

Congratulations to Michael on his latest honour - and we're delighted that he had such a great time.