Argyll and Bute has no shortage of success when it comes to winning awards.
From Dunoon Grammar crowned the World’s Best School for Community Collaboration, to Campbeltown Brass winning the British Brass Band Championship, Argyll and Bute had a lot to be proud about in 2022, and as we settle into a new year, Provost Maurice Corry is encouraging residents to continue being ambitious for the area.
Provost Corry said: “Argyll and Bute is a very talented place. 2022 was a fantastic year for many local residents, clubs, businesses and indeed the council, and I have no doubt that 2023 will follow suit.
“Alongside the successes of Dunoon Grammar and Campbeltown Brass, we also celebrated Port Ellen Primary winning The Pearson National Teaching Awards Primary School of the Year for Making a Difference, and we saw Inspiring Innellan win the coveted Keep Scotland Beautiful Community Involvement Discretionary award.
“Coll Hotel in Arinagour, Beinn an Tuirc Distillers Ltd in Campbeltown, and Fèis Ìle, The Islay Festival, also became regional winners in Visit Scotland’s annual Thistle Awards, qualifying for the national finals next month, and five places in Argyll and Bute were also shortlisted in Visit Scotland’s 20 Most Beautiful Places in Scotland.
“We also witnessed international success amongst young sports people from the area. Oban golfer Robert MacIntyre won his second European Tour title in Italy last September; motorcycle racer John MacPhee, also from Oban, finished his Moto3 career in 11th place at Valencian GP and will now compete in the 2023 FIM World Supersport Championship; whilst Gordon Reid from Helensburgh won the wheelchair doubles in both the Australian and French Tennis Opens.
“As a council, we have also had our fair share of success in the last 12 months. For example, our Empty Homes Team picked up the Outstanding Team Award at the 2022 Scottish Empty Homes Awards; our Communications Team was named In-house Team of the Year by the Public Relations and Communication Association; and our schools catering service received The Soil Associations’ Bronze Food for Life Served Here Award for the 10th year in a row.
“These are just a few examples of talented, hard-working local residents and businesses who are helping put the area on the map. We all have a lot to be proud about. I wish Argyll and Bute continued success in 2023.”