Neighbours we would all love to have

THEY are dedicated and enthusiastic, working tirelessly to make a difference to their neighbours and communities.

These local heroes never look for thanks, but their efforts do not go unnoticed and many were nominated by grateful friends and neighbours.

Today, as we celebrate the second year of the Evening News Community Awards, supported by the Post Office, we honour all those who work tirelessly to make their neighbourhoods a better place – but especially our six award winners.

BEST COMMUNITY WORKER

Tam Smith, 49, Steadings Gardens, Dunbar

Club leader Tam Smith has been dedicated to coaching youngsters at Edinburgh's famous Hutchison Vale Football Club for more than 20 years.

He was nominated for our award by parents and colleagues and, of course, the children he coaches.

The number of children playing for the club at Saughton Park has risen dramatically since the youth worker joined in 1986 – more than 100 boys aged between eight and 21 now play.

Tam, a residential care officer with East Lothian Council, has travelled all over the world with his Hutchie teams, who count Hibs players Ian Murray and Paul Hanlon, and young Hearts star Gary Glen among their former members who have made it as professionals.

"This means a lot to me but really I'm collecting the award on behalf of all the leaders at the club," says Tam. "I'm honoured and privileged."

BEST GARDEN

Alison McKinstrie, 51, Denham Green Place, Trinity, Edinburgh

Lots of people stop to admire Alison McKinstrie's garden. It's a project she started as a way of getting her three children out in the fresh air when they moved into their home 12 years ago.

Now the finance director enjoys nothing better than spending time pottering among the plants after a day spent couped up in the office.

Alison says: "When I moved in it was miserable, lacking any plants and flowers.

"But it's very good therapy after a day in front of the computer."

BEST YOUTH INITIATIVE

Robert Clark, 65, Macbeth Moir Road, Musselburgh

As one of the founder members of the St Ninian's Junior Concert Party, Robert Clark is understandably proud when he sees young actors take to the stage.

The group, which introduces children to theatre and film, was started in 1960 by Robert and some fellow fifth-year pupils at Musselburgh Grammar.

Robert, a chemistry teacher who retired from Newbattle High just yesterday, is now the chairman of the Concert Party.

Modestly, he says: "I like to think this is recognition of the hard work of an awful lot of people."

BEST SHOP

Blackhall Licensed Grocer, Strachan Road, Edinburgh

To the elderly people he delivers groceries to, shop owner George Macdonald not only provides a service but a lifeline.

On one occasion, when a customer didn't answer her door, he alerted emergency services who discovered the pensioner had been unconscious for 12 hours.

George, delivers to around 60 people a week on his round, which covers Goldenacre, Corstorphine and Cramond. He even pops to the fishmonger or butcher for them.

He was nominated for the award by Joyce MacPherson, 84, a customer for more than 40 years."I really appreciate even being nominated for this award," says George, a father-of-two.

He added: "I do a lot for people in the area, but I also get a lot of satisfaction from helping people out."

BEST NEIGHBOUR

Kenny Watson, 55, Ormiston Crescent, Tranent

As a man who has kept a watchful eye on his neighbours' welfare all his life, Kenny Watson was surprised to be named as the best neighbour in the Lothians.

He says: "It's the way I was brought up and I really thought everyone was like that."

Kenny was nominated for the award by Shona Johnston, who lives next door and visits him every Thursday evening.

BEST CARER

Anne McBurnie, 55, of Walter Scott Avenue, Edinburgh

A foster carer for more than 20 years, Anne McBurnie first became a respite carer after her daughters Mary and Tracy started school.

She says: "I started to offer respite care to children because it was something I could do from home"

Since then, the mother-of-two hasn't looked back and has lost count of the number of children she has cared for over the years. Many have stayed in touch with Anne and a phone call or visit always brightens her day.

"It's nice to know how they're getting on and to know that there can sometimes be a happy ending," adds Anne.