Edinburgh transport convener Lesley Macinnes loses out in 'Covid Hero' award

Controversial city transport convener Lesley Macinnes has lost out after being shortlisted for the “Covid-19 Hero” title at a national awards ceremony for councillors.

Lesley Macinnes has spearheaded the Spaces for People programme

Cllr Macinnes, who has spearheaded the Spaces for People programme of temporary traffic measures in response to the coronavirus crisis, was among six contenders for the title, which the award organisers said was "to celebrate a councillor who has championed their local community during the pandemic".

But the award went instead to Glasgow councillor Eva Murray.

Neither of the other Edinburgh councillors shortlisted won their categories either. Long-serving Tory group leader Iain Whyte was in the running for the Lifetime Contribution award and Susan Rae, Green councillor for Leith Walk, was shortlisted for Urban Community Champion.

Top prize of the night for Leader of the Year went to Jenny Laing of Aberdeen City Council.

More than 100 nominations were received for the third annual "Cllr Awards" run by the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) Scotland and charity fund managers CCLA.

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