Denise Hanks named Tweeddale Citizen of the Year

Denise’s nomination was made by the Walkerburn and District Community Council and also had widespread support from local residents and fellow committee members.

The selection panel were impressed with her significant contribution over a number of years to community life, particularly her involvement with a range of groups in Walkerburn including the Development Trust, Burning Issues Newsgroup, Flower and Vegetable Society, Crafts 4U and the public hall.

Among her many achievements has been as the main organiser of Food HUGS (Healthy Uncomplicated Great Scran), which provides freshly cooked two course meals to vulnerable and shielding residents, and FareShare which supplies food to the Walkerburn Sharing Shed.

Scottish Borders Council’s convener, Councillor David Parker, said: “Denise is a very worthy winner of Tweeddale Citizen of the Year 2020 for her considerable efforts to improve the lives of those in her local community.”

Accepting the award, Denise said: “I am extremely honoured to have been selected, but would like to stress that it really has and continues to be a team effort.

“We are such a strong and supportive community here in Walkerburn and initiatives like Food HUGS just wouldn’t have been possible without the collective effort of all the volunteers, who have given their time willingly.

“My small part in this particular venture was to bring all the necessary parties together and it was by that joint working that we were able to create something really special in these difficult times.

“I truly believe that the volunteers and organisations have been such an important part of Food HUGS and deserve all the recognition. Together we can be very proud of what is being achieved in and for our community.”

The award was made following a recent online meeting of the Selection Committee. It is hoped that a formal ceremony can be held as and when COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.