MSP ENCOURAGES SEARCH FOR LOCAL BORDERS' HEROES

1.15.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 23rd Sep 2009

Jim Hume MSP, Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland, is encouraging people to nominate their favourite Borders' business or individual for a Local Hero Award.

The competition is being run by the Scottish Countryside Alliance.

Jim Hume said:

"There are a great many enterprises, businesses, local services and individuals in the Borders worthy of this award, and I'm hoping that people will see this call and nominate a business or individual they feel deserves recognition.

"The deadline for nominations is the 19th October and the winner in each of the five categories which will be announced in the Scottish Parliament, will go forward for the UK wide competition.

"This type of competition really highlights the value of rural enterprise whether that's the post office or a successful business which has built up over the years, or indeed an individual who might be considered a hero in the local community."

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. The five categories are; Best Local Food Award; Best Village Shop/ Post Office Award; Rural Enterprise Award; Best Traditional Business Award; Rural Hero (about anyone heroic, no matter their age, line of work or what their heroic deeds)

2. More details can be found at www.scottishcountrysideallianceawards.co.uk