It is time once again to shine a light on the people who make our communities thrive.
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Scotland Loves Local Awards, and people across the Highlands and Islands are being encouraged to put forward the local legends who make a real difference to daily life.
From tireless volunteers and community champions to towns bursting with spirit, the awards celebrate those who help our places flourish.
This year’s call includes a renewed search for the Highlands and Islands’ own High Street Hero, a title that last year went to Dufftown’s Jim Nicol, whose passion for his home town and dedication to community groups earned him wide recognition.
Whether it is someone organising events, supporting neighbours, running local shops or keeping the town centre vibrant, this is your chance to honour their work.
The awards also invite nominations for Town of the Year, a national title that recognises communities showing exceptional enterprise, collaboration and heart.
Kimberley Guthrie, Chief Officer of Scotland’s Towns Partnership, said the awards shine a light on the people who go above and beyond.
“I have been lucky to meet some of these incredible individuals,” she said.
“They are changing lives in quiet but powerful ways, and the Scotland Loves Local Awards give us all a way to say thank you.”
Now in their fifth year, the awards are part of the broader Scotland Loves Local movement, which encourages people to build better futures by supporting the places they call home.
There are three national categories: Town of the Year, Most Enterprising Community and Place Leader of the Year.
In addition, eight High Street Hero Awards will be handed out, one in each Scottish Parliament electoral region, recognising a person or organisation who has gone the extra mile to improve local life.
The judging will celebrate those who show innovation, determination and a strong commitment to making their community more sustainable and connected.
If you know someone who fits the bill, you can nominate them online at www.lovelocal.scot/awards, where you will also find the full list of award criteria.
Nominations close at 5pm on Wednesday 30 August 2025.
Finalists will be revealed in September, with winners announced in October.
A special awards reception will take place in Edinburgh in November to honour all the finalists and their achievements.
So whether it is your neighbour, your favourite town centre or the local group that brings people together, now is the time to recognise their impact.
Let us celebrate the people who give our communities their heartbeat.
