Mearns groups recognised for becoming more climate and nature friendly

Forty-six entrants, from 18 local authority areas, were congratulated for their efforts to support and enhance their local communities, encouraging biodiversity and nature, and contributing to climate action, at the online event.

Stonehaven Horizon Project picked up Gold for all the horticultural, environmental and community efforts throughout the town and also scooped the discretionary Year of Stories Award for their project with the Mearns Writers.

Brighter Bervie were awarded a Certificate of Recognition in the non-judged category.

This year a full Beautiful Scotland competition was held, after a two-year pause, with medal certificates, awards for best-in-category, the prestigious Rosebowl – won this year by Aberdeen Communities Together and Angus group East Haven Together – and special discretionary awards being presented at the online ceremony on October 19. Judging was held from August 1-14.

There was also a non-competitive option, awarding Certificates of Recognition, allowing groups to connect with others and take part in the programme without participating in the judged element. This autumn and winter, Keep Scotland Beautiful will be travelling through Scotland to visit judged entrants who wish to be presented with their well-earnt certificates and awards.

Run by the charity in association with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the programme provides the opportunity for volunteers, groups and local authorities to gain recognition for their efforts to protect and enhance their local places. With 2022 being the Year of Stories, this was an optional theme for entries to focus activities and events on.

All entrants developed new ways of ensuring that the places they care about were looked after under the three pillars of community participation, environmental responsibility and horticultural achievement.

Barry Fisher, Chief Executive with Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “We’re in a climate and nature emergency, but we know that communities across Scotland have been working tirelessly to protect and enhance their neighbourhoods, reconnecting with the environment and their communities, and rebuilding after the challenges that the lockdowns posed.

“Beautiful Scotland provides us with such a wonderful opportunity to recognise all the excellent work being done, and to celebrate with, and thank everyone who is keeping Scotland beautiful. I’d like to thank the entrants from Aberdeenshire for all they do, and I’d encourage others to get involved.”

Kay Clark, RHS Community Development Manager said: “It is really encouraging to see community gardeners using their talents to help address the defining issue of our time and embrace planet-friendly gardening.

"Gardeners across Scotland are turning to novel and inspiring ways to support the environment, wildlife and ensure their local areas are attractive places to live and work. Congratulations to them all.”

Find out more at www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org