Who is your local hero?

Cast your vote in‘People’s Oscars’

West Lothian people are being urged to nominate community heroes in the annual Sunday Mail Great Scot Awards.

Now in its third year of sponsorship, Specsavers in Bathgate and Livingston is supporting the 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 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, Specsavers wants your nomination.

Ted Akil, store director at Specsavers in Livingston, said: “Supporting the local community is at the heart of what we do here in the Livingston store – 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 West Lothian.”

Nominations must be in by August 25. For more information on the awards, visit www.greatscotawards. co.uk or write and tell us why your nominee deserves recognition at: Great Scot Awards, One Central Quay, Glasgow, G3 8DA.

The overall award winners will be announced at a star-studded ceremony hosted by Jackie Bird at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, Glasgow Central, on Saturday, October 28.