Luke in the running for Young Scot award
A Brodick teenager has been announced as a finalist in the Young Scot Awards for his tireless work to improve Scotland’s sea life.
Luke Nelson, who is 14, can often be seen volunteering at many charitable events, including the Arran RNLI. However, he has been nominated in the environment category for his work with the Community of Arran Seabed Trust (COAST).
But he faces tough competition for the title from two much older environmental champions – Meredith Adams from Edinburgh and Andrew Wilson from Glasgow, who are both 24. Luke will attend the annual awards ceremo- ny, hosted by Love Island’s Iain Stirling, on Friday November 30 at the SEC Centre in Glasgow where the winner will be announced. As one of the final events in the Year of Young People, the awards are set to be the biggest in its 12-year history.
Passionate about solving the issues facing marine environments, Luke surveys the waters off Arran’s shore and uses his findings to research solutions to preserve the ocean’s wildlife. He is continuously looking at ways to help save Scotland’s sea life and hopes to make a big impact for generations to come. Putting his words into actions, Luke has impressed members of the local community with his campaigns to preserve Arran’s over fished and damaged seabed and by supporting marine conservation and search and rescue services alike.
Louise Macdonald, chief executive of Young Scot, said: ‘This has been a massive year for Scotland’s young people and we were inundated with inspiring stories about young Scots across the country. Luke’s inspiring story shows how important young people are to Scotland and their incredible contributions to communities on Arran.’
COAST director Paul Chandler said: ‘Here at the Octopus Centre we are very proud to hear that Luke is a finalist in the Young Scot Awards.
‘Education on the value of marine conservation is a key aim for us and Luke embodies this.
‘He is a passionate and active volunteer at COAST outreach events, the youngest member of our community advisory panel and is great at inspiring young and old with his knowledge of our Arran marine life.’