Alness High Street is the 'envy of the region'
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AN Easter Ross High Street is the “envy of other communities” after it claimed a major national honour, a local MP believes.
Jamie Stone said the success of Alness High Street in the Great British High Street awards shows just what can be achieved in towns with a strong community spirit.
He was speaking after it won the champion high street award for Scotland.
“I am incredibly proud that Alness won the champion high street award and it is a real tribute to people like Councillor Carolyn Wilson and her team who put so much work in,” said Mr Stone, whose constituency includes Easter Ross.
“As someone who uses Alness High Street on a regular basis, I can vouch for just how vital it is. The variety and standard of the High Street businesses should be the envy of other communities.
“Thank you to everyone who supported the team and voted for Alness high street, and thank you to those who worked so hard to achieve this recognition.”
Cllr Wilson, who runs Victoriana in Alness, believes the town’s success is due to the public spirit of the community, and praised the many volunteers who help to keep the town vibrant.
She added: “The public got behind it and we’ve been overwhelmed by the support – not just in the local area but further afield as well. It really caught people’s imaginations.”
That was certainly the case on social media, with an outpouring of praise online following the town’s award win.
Ken Weir said: “Well done Alness! It’s great to see that it’s finally being recognised for the wonderful place it is!” And Shona Sutherland added: “Well deserved, always looks great!”
The town will be marking its success at a joint celebration and festive lights switch-on ceremony next Thursday.
Shops will be opening later that night, offering a range of special deals. There will also be stalls, food tastings and more. The event is expected to run from 5.30- 8pm.
