Lifetime Achievement Award

We are thrilled and honoured that Sandy Fraser, the Oak Tree Inn founder, was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2021 Scottish Bar & Pub Awards.

Sandy, shocked and surprised to receive the award, was joined on stage by his wife Lucy and some of his children Stuart, David, Emma, Nina and Ben. The Fraser Family were at awards for their nomination in recognition of outstanding sustainability initiatives.

Sandy and Lucy had a clear vision for The Oak Tree when they launched it in 1997. A warm and welcoming pub and restaurant for locals, walkers and visitors that wasn't another pub with a TV.

The family's hard work has seen their business grow in size, with profits reinvested to introduce new facilities such as a village shop, coffee shop, B&B accommodation, etc.

Sandy is proud that the growing business has become East Loch Lomond's most significant employer and attributes the company's growth to his family. "All of my children have played a vital role in the development, each adding their unique contribution."

The Oak Tree Inn is responsible for the transformation of Balmaha, creating the picturesque lochside village that we know today. Sandy can often be found planting flowers, watering them and picking up litter. He also played a vital role in creating and maintaining Weir's Rest, the home of the Tom Weir Statue. Sandy also worked long and hard to create a new pontoon to unlock water access and allow disabled access onto cruise boats.