Gongs up for grabs at the first Clarkston Community Awards

The headline prize for the night, the Clarkston Community Champion, shall be given to a nominee for their achievements and immense endeavours within Clarkston and the wider East Renfrewshire area.

The short list is made up of: Iain Winters, the lollipop man at Carolside Primary school who has been a firm favourite with parents and pupils for a number of years; Kathryn Schalchi, a cub scout leader from 121st Clarkston Scout Group who has dedicated much of her free time to the group; Russell Macmillan, who launched East Renfrewshire Good Causes as a thank you following a life- saving transplant operation and finally Steve Malloy, the treasurer of The Rotary Club of Eastwood, who are responsible for a number of fundraisers for young people throughout the area. BID Manager, Andy Dunlop, said: “We knew there were many special people doing great work in the area, we’re very pleased to be able to give them the recognition they deserve.”

The other finalists are:

Inspirational Leader – This prize will be awarded to the top inspirational person in Clarkston who provides direction and leadership to others. This could be a, e.g. teacher, coach or group leader. Chris McKenna (Williamwood High School); Claire Murray (Anytime Fitness Clarkston); Richard Schofield (Clarkston Community Choir); Marion Connaghan (All Star Junior Netballers).

Group of the Year sponsored by Bluebird Care Glasgow South – Celebrating the group that shines brightest in Clarkston, this prize will be awarded to the organised group which does the most within the Clarkston Community. 1st Stamperland Brownies; Carolside Sports Club; Clarkston Community Choir; Harlequin Eastwood Theatre for Youth; Off Grid Community (Off Grid Kids)

Customer Service Star sponsored by JPR Bathrooms – Awarded to the individual or business who goes beyond the call of duty to ensure that their customers are taken care of. Nominations are open to individuals, high street and home-based businesses. Debbie Stewart at Abientot; Jane Watt at Cafe Roma Clarkston; Pamela Coulter at Lloyds Pharmacy, Seres Road; Paper Isle; Skinfiniti Glasgow.

Independent Business of the Year sponsored by Business Gateway – Awarded to the Clarkston business who exceeds expectations in helping the local community and showcasing exemplary customer service. Open to all local businesses with 6 or less outlets nationwide. Dandy’s Delicatessen; Distinction Health and Beauty; Eat Deli; gifted Glasgow; The Wee Chocolate Company

National Business of the Year – Awarded to the Clarkston business who, although part of a national chain (7+ outlets), goes above and beyond supporting the local community whilst showcasing exemplary customer service. Anytime Fitness Clarkston; Bluebird Care Glasgow South; Costa Coffee Clarkston; Scotmid Co-operative, Benview Road

The eighth award scheduled to be presented on the night will be given to a person 16 years and under who demonstrates an energy, courage or drive to improve the community they live in and the lives of those around them.

Talking about the award, BID Chair, John Paul Reilly said: “During the nomination process we have heard some amazing stories of the lengths people go to for their community, but one of the most inspiring was the story of Williamwood High pupil, Kyle Bremner.

“Kyle sadly passed away in December 2017, but not before he inspired everyone around him with his warm spirit, enthusiasm, hard work and courage.”

“As a result of the outpouring of love that had been shown by the local community, we knew the most fitting tribute would be to rename the Young Person of the Year Award in Kyle’s honour.”

Now named after the inspiring and warm-spirited Williamwood High School pupil, this prize will be awarded to one of the following finalists: Adam Thomson; Abby Turnbull; Michael Sinclair; Ross Nisbett

Swanson Sports will sponsor the Kyle Bremner Award, for Young Person of the Year.

Tickets for the Awards night on Friday, March 1 at the Redhurst Hotel are priced at £30 per person or £250 per table of 10.

All tickets will include a glass of bubbly on arrival, three-course meal, awards and live entertainment from musical trio Ginny & the Tonic.

A very limited number of tickets remain, and can be purchased from facebook.com/iloveclarkston.

This promises to be a wonderful night celebrating the Clarkston community and a great chance to shout about those unsung heroes within the town!