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The hard work of the Tarbert Conservation Initiative was recognised when members picked up the Volunteer Group of the Year award. To buy: t24vol02 |
THE TARBERT Conservation Initiative (TCI) picked up the Volunteer Group of the Year award at a ceremony in Oban.
The hard work of Argyll’s volunteers was recognised at the Volunteer of the Year awards at the Argyllshire Gathering Halls, which was attended by Jim Mather MSP.
TCI has been instrumental in restoring sites of natural and historic importance in Argyll and Bute.
Due to its efforts Tarbert Castle and the surrounding areas have been restored and are now accessible to all.
Chairman Robert McPhail was thrilled with the award, he said: ‘It is simply great to have our work recognised. I am absolutely delighted to receive this award.
‘The credibility of recognition like this will be such a help when trying to secure funding in the future.’
The group works in partnership with many local organisations, including the local school, to promote citizenship and raise awareness of conservation.
Runners-up were the ladies of the Soroba Shop Group in Oban who have done a huge amount for the residents of Soroba, including Christmas dinners for elderly residents.
Brian Swinbanks, 63, won the Volunteer of the Year award for his contribution towards 25 years of volunteering with Tobermory Harbour Association.
He said: ‘It is wonderful to receive this award. I feel very humbled. I am extremely enthusiastic about the work the THA does here on Mull and I love being a part of it.’
Acting as the chairman of the association since 1983, Brian was one of the first people to recognise that the harbour in Tobermory was central to the community and that if it was run by the community for the community, everyone should benefit.
‘My proudest achievement in 25 years is Taighsolais (meaning lighthouse in Gaelic), which is the name of the new Harbour Association building which will be officially opened on July 3. It will be a facility for the whole community to use,’ said Brian.
