Inspirational young people in Midlothian celebrated at annual awards

Held at Rosslyn Chapel, the awards are open to young people living, working or studying in the county feature five categories of awards which are organised by Midlothian Council in conjunction, the Lord-Lieutenant of Midlothian, the Midlothian Youth Platform and other young people.

Midlothian Council chief executive Grace Vickers, welcomed everyone to the event which was hosted by group service manager Annette Lang supported by S6 St David’s High School pupil, Eustaice Oweh. Matt Kelly from the council’s recycling team, who is also a renowned poet, read a poem written specifically for the event.

Each winner and runner-up received a certificate and a trophy and a charitable donation will also be made to a charity of their choice.

The winners and runners-up are pictured with Lord-Lieutenant Lt Col Richard Callander.

The categories and winners were: The Caring and Volunteering Award – winner Reuben Ferguson/runner up Chloe Patterson; The Sport and Physical Activity Award – winner Aimee Aitken/runner-up Aimee Falconer; The Arts and Culture Award – winner the KP Glee Choir/unner Up was Kieran Burnett; The Achievement in Learning Award – winner Jayden Bradley/runner up – Rachel Leitch; The Local Community Award – winner Jake Mowatt/runners-up Blair and Aila Mackenzie; The Midlothian Award – winner Rachel Pettigrew.

Prizes were presented by Midlothian Provost, Cllr Debbi McCall and Midlothian’s Lord-Lieutenant, Lt Col Richard Callander.

Lt Col Callander said: “After receiving a record number of entries for this year’s awards, I’m delighted to offer my warmest congratulations to all winners and runners-up.

"Once again, these awards have provided an opportunity to highlight some amazing achievements by some of Midlothian’s exceptional young people, who are an inspiration to us all.”

Ms McCall added: “All the winners should be very proud of their achievements. They are role models and provide inspiration to other young people.

"A big thank you to everyone who made a nomination.”