South Uist
SOUTH UIST woman Gemma Steele has been nominated as a local hero for her charity work helping children in Kenya.
Na h’Eileanan an Iar MSP Alasdair Allan chose her to attend the official opening of the Scottish Parliament last Saturday (July 2).
All 129 MSPs were invited to make such nominations for local heroes to attend the ceremony at Holyrood and take part in the traditional ‘ Riding’ procession down the Royal Mile along with 2,000 other people.
The Queen addressed MSPs in the Chamber and Holyrood’s ‘ Big Day Out’ took place, a fun-filled family day of exploring the parliament building and taking part in events such as a mini Highland Games.
Commenting before the event took place, Mr Allan said: ‘Gemma is clearly an exceptional individual and her work has been a true inspiration to others. She has shown incredible dedication to helping transform the lives of young people in Kenya by founding an orphanage. I think Gemma epitomises the warm, outward looking, charitable character of these isles and I look forward to seeing her take part in the opening of parliament.’ CEÒLAS Uibhist’s annual symposium celebrating significant South Uist people, places, events and traditions will take place at the end of the month.
This year’s event, ‘Tìr tha Taitneach, will run from July 24-26 and will focus on the villages of Howbeg, Howmore and Snishival.
There will be a host of activities and events such as walks, talks, concerts and ceilidhs, spinning demonstration and song classes.