The scenery and people of Argyll and Bute have received glowing reviews following the BBC Scotland series, The Country Council.

Viewing figures have been high, with each episode drawing in an average of 24% of viewers across the entire television network. This figure does not take into account the many more people who will watch the programme through catch-up tv.

Social media and word-of-mouth feedback has recognised the appeal of the area and the dedication of the people working in different ways to support communities.

The series followed staff from Argyll and Bute Council and its partner agencies as they went about their daily duties.

Cleland Sneddon, Chief Executive of the Council said: “It was a big decision to get involved in a national television series. We decided to go ahead with it to showcase Argyll and Bute as a great place to live, learn, work and do business, and to let people see the often unnoticed effort that council staff, and our partners, are going to every day to help in different ways.

The geography of Argyll and Bute presents great opportunities for lifestyle, leisure and business growth. It also involves considerable challenges in delivering services. The series shows both these aspects.

At a time when we are working to attract people and jobs to the area, the Country Council has provided a great advert for Argyll and Bute.  It has also highlighted the vital role of local government in the lives of local people.

I would like to thank all employees who made this possible by taking part. I know how hard our staff work every day to support the people and places of Argyll and Bute. I see council employees working  with compassion and dedication, and going the extra mile to improve peoples’ lives. I am pleased that so many others, through this series, are recognising this too. Thank you to everyone who has made this a success for Argyll and Bute.”