Ann Bell - Fraserburgh's own Shogun

Fraserburgh and District  Councillor Ann Bell of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, was made an honourary Shogun on the 14th June.

Cllr Bell said.  T‘oday I was greatly honoured to be presented with the Order of the Scottish Samurai  Shogun award.  Such an honour.’

ouncillor Ann Bell MBE was awarded the prestigious "Shogun" title by the Order of the Scottish Samurai (OSS) in June 2026. [1]

She received the award at a special ceremony during the Fraserburgh Glover Festival, where she serves as Chair. The OSS Shogun regalia was presented to her by Katsutoshi Takeda, the Consul General of Japan in Edinburgh, alongside OSS Ambassador Graham Guyan DL. [1, 2]

The Order of the Scottish Samurai

• The Award: The Order of the Scottish Samurai recognizes individuals who make exceptional contributions to humanity, culture, and international relations. [1]
• Historical Connection: It heavily celebrates the historical ties between Scotland and Japan, particularly inspired by Thomas Blake Glover, a Fraserburgh-born merchant who played a pivotal role in the modernization of Japan. [1, 2]

During the same 2026 festival, Cllr Bell also coordinated high-profile events including the naming ceremony of Fraserburgh Harbour's new pilot boat, named "Glover" in honor of this shared heritage. [1]