THE moment of truth for three Ross-shire projects hoping for a 'golden' windfall came on Saturday afternoon at around 1.04pm.

That was the fateful moment a random – and very surprised – customer at Dingwall Tesco pulled the Golden Token from a pouch also containing 99 regular blue tokens.

Superstore shoppers will be familiar with the scheme which allows customers to vote for one of three local projects vying for cash awards under a variety of grant schemes.

These typically range from £500 to £1500 based on the number of counter votes received.

But after being chosen for its work in the community, the Dingwall store was given a Golden Token boost which ramped up the excitement with the prospect of a £5000 award to be selected by one customer.

In the latest tranche of the award scheme, three schools are vying for grants.

Loch Duich Primary has plans to improve the school garden by introducing a 'Seed to plate' learning environment for the children in the school.

Tarradale Primary in Muir of Ord plans continuing the work of MOO Food by growing food within the school whilst teaching the children about sustainability.

And Strathpeffer Primary has plans for a sensory room which it believes would enhance the environment of the school, be used by all and be of particular help to support children who find learning in a classroom challenging.

Pupils had earlier posted a 'Good luck' video ahead of Saturday's excitement and those good vibes were rewarded!

The remaining two projects will each still secure the regular awards depending on their votes.

Dingwall's community champion Michelle Mackay – suitably dressed for the occasion in a sparkly gold jacket – said: "At approximately 1.04pm a random customer pulled out the Golden Token from a pouch containing 99 blue tokens.

"The customer took her time to read the reason why each group applied for the grant and decided Strathpeffer Primary School deserved the £5000, as the idea of a sensory room thrilled her."

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