Trio of trainees land outdoor accolades
Awards presented by telly presenter Adam Henson
Three Stirling trainees have been honoured for their outdoor work at an awards ceremony.
Stuart McKinlay, a 22-year-old trainee from Deanston near Stirling, won the fisheries management and environmental conservation accolade at Lantra Scotland’s National Awards.
Gill Walker, originally from Balfron and now living in Glasgow, and Megan Simpson, from Aberfoyle, were named as runnersup in their respective categories at the ceremony, which took place at the Dunblane Hydro last week.
The awards were hosted by farmer and TV presenter Adam Henson, who reminded the audience of the importance of investing in skills to ensure a future for the rural economy.
Stuart is undertaking an SVQ in environmental conservation at SRUC Oatridge campus while also working as an apprentice fisheries bailiff at Stirling Council Fisheries.
His main role is protecting fish stocks on the River Forth and Teith. He said: “I’m so happy to have won an award, it is unbelievable. I have had great support from my boss and the rest of the team and I’m really proud that all my hard work is being recognised.”
Gill is doing an SVQ Level 2 in environmental conservation through the Cairngorms Outdoors Access Trust near Balloch. Based in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, the project focuses on repairing, refurbishing and constructing upland paths, as well surveying and habitat management.
Megan has completed an HNC and HND in equine studies at SRUC Oatridge Campus, and was awarded the Best Student prize for both courses.
The Learner of the Year Awards are organised by Lantra Scotland, the sector-skills council for the landbased, aquaculture and environmental industries, and play a vital role in celebrating the achievements of trainees within Scotland’s rural sector and in encouraging employers to invest in the next generation of talent.
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