Gairloch's Sitooterie scoops up more awards as 'amazing work' of Wester Ross community effort is recognised
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A Wester Ross community garden has received two new national awards for its work this year.
The Sitooterie Wildlife Observation Garden in Pier Road, Gairloch was started just 5 years ago in an attempt to transform a waterside wasteland and polluted area into a small seating facility for visitors to enjoy the spectacular views of the loch and surrounding scenery.
Since then the project has been embraced by the local community, growing arms and legs and developing into a 206 metre long garden.
An award has now been received from The Royal Horticultural Society, for this community group demonstrating "Courage, creativity and ingenuity in 2020".
A second award has followed with another "Certificate of Recognition in 2020" from Keep Scotland Beautiful. Barry Fisher, Chief Executive of KSB, thanked the Sitooterie for "its incredible activity that you have undertaken "and was "delighted to recognise and celebrate your amazing work".
Sitooterie co-ordinator, David Carruthers, is delighted by these awards which he says directly reflects the work done by local volunteers.
"These are great awards achieved by terrific volunteers and benefactors who have funded the Sitooterie's incredible progress. Originally estimated to take 20 years to complete, the construction of this much loved garden has now been completed in just over five years".
Related: Outstanding labour of love project can inspire others