Commonwealth Games local heroes honoured

Sporting achievements recognised by Forfar civic ceremony

The Angus contingent of sporting heroes who participated in the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games earlier this year were honoured at a ceremony in Forfar.

The event, hosted by Provost of Angus, Councillor Ronnie Proctor, with Lord Lieutenant Georgiana Osborne and Deputy Provost Councillor Colin Brown, paid tribute to the hard work, dedication and success of the athletes.

Other athletes were also honoured including Kirriemuir-born footballer Scott McKenna, who is one of Scotland’s rising stars in the sport.

The 21-year-old was recognised for his excellent season in the Aberdeen defence, his nomination for the Professional Footballers Association Young Footballer of the Year, and his call-up to the senior Scotland team.

Arbroath’s bowling police officer Darren Burnett won praise for his gold medal winning performance and Mr Proctor paid tribute to fellow bowler Mike Nicoll for his “inspirational commitment, determination, enthusiasm and passion.”

Montrose squash player Lisa Aitken’s fight back from mosquito-borne tropical disease dengue fever to take part in the Games was described as “inspirational” by Mr Proctor.

The performances of athlete Eilish McColgan and boxer John Docherty, who secured a bronze medal, were also highlighted at the event.

Speaking after the ceremony, Mr Proctor said: “I was delighted to have the opportunity to welcome these athletes and congratulate them on their sporting endeavours and accomplishments.

“While we were all thrilled to watch their amazing performances on television, what we do not see is the exceptional level of sacrifice and dedication that it takes to be part of sport on the international stage.

“All of these athletes have done us proud in their respective fields, and are truly inspirational, and well deserving of our greatest respect.

“I firmly believe that these talented sportspeople will receive many more accolades and awards in the years to come, and it was a great privilege to welcome them here today and congratulate them on behalf of the people of Angus.”

All of these athletes have done us proud and are deserving of our greatest respect

Picture: Gareth Jennings. Bowlers Darren Burnett (with gold medal) and Mike Nicoll with Provost Ronnie Proctor, Lord Lieutenant Georgiana Osborne and Deputy Provost Colin Brown.