Businesswoman hailed for coronavirus crisis response in Easter Ross town of Alness
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AN Alness woman who became a “force for good” in her community as the pandemic struck has landed the top regional honour in a national community awards.
Carolyn Wilson, who runs Victoriana Florist and Gifts in the Ross-shire town, was one of 1200 nominees for the Scotland Loves Local campaign’s High Street Heroes awards.
Mrs Wilson, who is also a Highland councillor, was named regional champion for the Highlands from among others highly commended for “remarkable work and tireless dedication” during the coronavirus crisis.
Mrs Wilson’s nomination stated: “From the start of lockdown, Carolyn organised local businesses to donate food. Initially she cooked and created meals in her own kitchen, for folk in the community who were shielding.
“She gathered support from a team of volunteers and with support from Councillor Pauline Munro arranged production and delivered up to 100 hot meals each day.
“She organised other businesses in Alness to share the load and cook and donate for free the food seven days per week.
“Carolyn galvanised the community and was a force for good. Her leadership was an inspiration. She led from the front (as) a true community champion who is a force for good in their community.”
A roll of honour of all nominees has been published at www.lovelocal.scot. Scotland Loves Local is managed by Scotland’s Towns Partnership, with Scottish Government support.
Communities secretary Aileen Campbell thanked the High Street Heroes for “going the extra mile” to help their communities adding: “This has been a difficult year for all of us. The only way we will get through is by sticking together, being kind, and offering help where needed.”
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