Three groups from Argyll and Bute were recognised by environmental charity, Keep Scotland Beautiful, at an award ceremony today.
Forty-six entrants, from 18 local authority areas, were congratulated for their efforts to support and enhance their local communities, encouraging biodiversity and nature, and contributing to climate action, at the online event.
The successful Argyll and Bute entrants were:
- Inspiring Innellan – gold award
- Cairndow Village Hall – silver gilt
- Scenic Sandbank – certificate of recognition in the non-judged category
The Inspiring Innellan group also scooped the discretionary community Involvement Award which was open to all entrants in the judged category across Scotland.
This year a full Beautiful Scotland competition was held, after a two-year pause, with medal certificates, awards for best-in-category, the Rosebowl – won this year by Aberdeen Communities Together and Angus group East Haven Together – and special discretionary awards being presented at the online ceremony.
Judging was held in August.
There was also a non-competitive option, awarding certificates of recognition, allowing groups to connect with others and take part in the programme without participating in the judged element.
Barry Fisher, chief executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful said, “We’re in a climate and nature emergency, but we know that communities across Scotland have been working tirelessly to protect and enhance their neighbourhoods, reconnecting with the environment and their communities, and rebuilding after the challenges that the lockdowns posed.
“Beautiful Scotland provides us with such a wonderful opportunity to recognise all the excellent work being done, and to celebrate with, and thank everyone who is keeping Scotland beautiful.
“I’d like to thank the entrants from Argyll and Bute for all they do, and I’d encourage others to get involved.”
This autumn and winter, Keep Scotland Beautiful will be travelling through Scotland to visit judged entrants who wish to be presented with their well-earnt certificates and awards.
Run by the charity in association with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the programme provides the opportunity for volunteers, groups and local authorities to gain recognition for their efforts to protect and enhance their local places.
Kay Clark, RHS community development manager, said: “It is really encouraging to see community gardeners using their talents to help address the defining issue of our time and embrace planet-friendly gardening.
“Gardeners across Scotland are turning to novel and inspiring ways to support the environment, wildlife and ensure their local areas are attractive places to live and work. Congratulations to them all.”
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