Island of Barra wins two Village of the Year accolades

THE island of Barra has been named UK Village of the Year, beating rural communities across Britain.

The Outer Hebridean island, which has a population of 1,300, scooped the overall UK and Scottish titles.

Judges were impressed by the wide variety of community activities on Barra, the work done to protect and enhance the environment and efforts to include people of all ages in island life.

They said islanders also demonstrated how they are constantly striving towards ensuring Barra's own sustainability by growing their own vegetables for local consumption and installing a community-owned 900kW wind turbine.

Suzanne Weir, Village of the Year manager with sponsor Calor Gas, said: "The community is an excellent example of how to make the most out of rural living.

"What made it for Barra was how the population work together to address the challenges of living in such an isolated location."

As the winners of the Scottish competition, Barra received 4,000 to invest in the community. As UK winners the islanders will receive a commissioned piece of mosaic artwork by the Plymouth-based artist, Sarah McCormack.

Among the local services which impressed the judges were the Barra Childcare Centre and Caf, which houses a playgroup and parent and toddler facilities, and another, community-owned, centre which provides services for carers and clients with Alzheimer's.