This last month I have been awarding my Community Hero Awards to groups and individuals across the constituency. These awards are about recognising those who have gone above and beyond during the pandemic.

Murray MacDonald

Murray has been making and delivering soup for vulnerable people all through the pandemic. Murray also runs the charity Autism on the Water which gets young autistic people involved in sailing – raising awareness and improving their confidence. His selflessness is an inspiration.

I was delighted to also present Murray with a Points of Light award on behalf of the Prime Minister.

Bridgend Farmhouse

At the beginning of the pandemic Bridgend set up an emergency food programme which distributed over 75,000 meals to those in need.

Well done to Eric Fernandez-Baca who set up the response, lead volunteer Kevin Morrison and all the volunteers who gave up their time to make sure others were fed. A heroic effort!

Gilmerton Neurological Unit

I was delighted to meet staff and residents at Gilmerton Neurological Care Centre to present one of my Community Hero Awards. Staff have gone above and beyond in what has been an incredibly difficult time for our care homes. I know how much they are valued by residents and their families and I thought it was important to show support from the wider community.

Well done to Victoria, Callie and the team!

Goodtrees Neighbourhood Centre

Goodtrees have been doing outstanding work delivering food packages to those in need during the pandemic. The young people have also been delivering laptops and tablets to elderly residents to make sure they can stay connected with friends and family.

Well done to all the young people at Goodtrees – they are inspirational.

Marchmont Hardware

Liane Phillips and daughter Kayleigh put their life and soul into Marchmont Hardware and the wider community in Marchmont. It was an honour to present Liane with the award for everything she has done – not just during COVID-19 – but over many years. Well done both!