Prestwick wins rising star prize
Town’s second place in national awards
Bustling business in Prestwick has been praised on the national stage.
The town landed second place in Scotland at the Great British High Street Awards last week.
Named runner- up in the ‘ Rising Star’ category, Prestwick was hailed by judges for “hitting the bar on so many levels”.
Cllr Hugh Hunter, the ambassador for Prestwick Business Association ( PBA), attended the award ceremony in London.
He said: “I was absolutely delighted with our result though I was disappointed that we didn’t win.
“It is encouraging to go for it next year and I would encourage more emphasis on the digital innovation side to promote the businesses and enhance the town centre.
“But I am delighted for the town and all credit goes to the businesses, the staff and the customers – it is a town performance and I couldn’t be more proud of my town.”
Graeme Johnstone, chairman of PBA, entered Prestwick into the awards.
He added: “The Business Association is proud of Prestwick and proud of what it’s done for the town and what the town has achieved over the last 10 years.
“We felt, along with Friends of Broadway, that we are a Main Street without empty shops and the vibrancy of the town both during the day and at night when it comes alive.
“The town has strong commu n i t y l i n k s a n d community groups who all work towards a positive Prestwick – in short, our town has a community and a business relationship unlike many towns.
“Our local councillors gave up their time to spend with the Great British High Street Judges on the day of reckoning, our shops decked out in bunting, and our community played a huge part by voting using hashtag # GBHSPRESTWICK.
“Prestwick has evolved over the last 10 years into a High Street which meets the needs of the local community and this is rewarded by its great community support and its ability to attract visitors.
“With many towns suffering decline Prestwick is staying ahead of many but recognises it needs to keep growing.
“The town is looking to some great initiatives for 2019, it has so much to offer and it can only move forward.
“Who knows maybe next year it will be top spot.”