Wester Ross estates on shortlist for 'helping it happen' award

TWO Wester Ross estates join organisations across the country in being nominated for awards recognising their work to improve Scotland's rural environment or benefit the people who live there.

Inverbroom Estate is nominated in the rural housing category and Lochrosque and Kinlochewe Estates is shortlisted for the enhancing the environment award in the Scottish Land & Estates (SLE) 2019 Helping It Happen Awards.

Also representing the north among this year's finalists is Lairg's Scourie Hotel, shortlisted in the tourism category, and Cullen Volunteer Group, which is nominated for the working with communities award.

Now in its third year, the awards recognise both business success and a commitment to bringing environmental, social and economic benefits to local communities, often in very remote areas of Scotland.

Judge Julia Latto of Scottish Enterprise commented: “We are inspired and enthused by the number and standard of entries for a third year running. Businesses from all facets of rural industry are sharing their growth and success, alongside demonstrable benefits to their communities, to the environment and to future generations.

"Selecting the finalists has been a challenging task for the panel, and those nominated should be extremely proud of their business achievements.”

SLE executive director Sarah-Jane Laing added: “Helping It Happen is evidently succeeding in its aim to gain public recognition for the economic and social contribution made by rural businesses to the Scottish economy.

"These businesses overcome the challenges of remote rural living to grow into successful enterprises, and many provide significant employment within their local communities and beyond. The standard of services, products and initiatives created by families and small collaborations, and the determination and professionalism required to develop into credible businesses deserves recognition and appreciation from consumers, industry and government bodies. We are delighted to be helping that happen!”

The winner of the nine categories will be announced at the Helping it Happen Awards gala evening on October 2 at the Sheraton Hotel in Edinburgh.

Tickets are available from Scottish Land & Estates.

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