Search for Scottish heroes

A Rutherglen opticians is encouraging locals to nominate their community hero in the annual Sunday Mail Great Scot Awards.

Now in its third year of sponsorship, Specsavers in Stonelaw Road is supporting the prestigious awards, dubbed the people’s Oscars, which honour the incredible achievements of ordinary people across Scotland who do extraordinary things.

Following the success of the 2016 campaign, which saw cancer charity Circle of Comfort crowned as the winners, the optician is specifically celebrating the community champions category.

Recognising individuals or groups who have shown incredible commitment to improving the lives of people in their local area, Specsavers is urging people to cast their votes online by August 25.

From those who have tackled vandalism in their community to people who have dedicated their lives to improving local facilities, the company wants nominations.

Ruterglen store director Peter Beaton said: “Supporting the local community is at the heart of what we do, from caring for the sight of people in the town to supporting local causes through fundraising.

“Sponsoring the community champion award is a natural extension of this and we can’t wait to see the suggestions that come in from local people.

“Nominating is really easy. All you need to do is go online and fill out the form explaining why your nominee deserves to win.

“We’re thoroughly looking forward to finding some true great Scots from right here in Rutherglen.”

For more information on the awards visit www. greatscotawards.co.uk or write to: Great Scot Awards, One Central Quay, Glasgow, G3 8DA.

The award winners will be announced at a starstudded awards ceremony hosted by newsreader Jackie Bird at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, Glasgow Central on Saturday, October 28.