GROUPS from the Wee County helping communities become more climate and nature friendly have been recognised at an awards event this week.

Dollar Horticultural and Garden Club with Dollar in Bloom as well as Alloa in Bloom both scooped a number accolades at the annual Beautiful Scotland awards.

The Dollar contingent won the Small Town Award and the Community Horticulture Award while receiving a Gold certificate.

Meanwhile, Alloa in Bloom was recognised with the BID Award while receiving a Silver Gilt.

It means the Wee County groups collected a combined five awards on the night.

Caroline Clarke, chair of Dollar Horticultural and Garden Club, said: “We are delighted with our three awards. We could not have done this without all the help and support of our volunteers and community.”

Organised by environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful and hosted by Aberdeen City Council, the annual Beautiful Scotland awards took place at Duthie Park, Aberdeen on Monday, September 9.

The night sought to celebrate and thank community groups and volunteers for their efforts in improving their areas and making them a nicer place for people to love, work and visit.

Altogether, 38 groups from all over Scotland were presented with awards and certificates of recognition for their efforts to improve, enhance and protect biodiversity and the places they care for and work and live in.

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Juliette Camburn, senior officer for Community Initiatives at Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “I’d like to wish huge congratulations to our fantastic Clackmannanshire groups who were honoured at this year’s Beautiful Scotland awards.

“It was wonderful to be in Aberdeen once again to celebrate the brilliant efforts of groups from across Scotland who do so much to improve our local communities.

“We’re facing climate and nature crises in Scotland, and everyone must play their part to halt biodiversity loss and to protect and enhance nature. The efforts of our groups, and all involved in their communities, is truly inspiring, ensuring their local areas are not only protected but improved for future generations.

“Every group thoroughly deserves their awards and recognition, and their collective effort is immensely appreciated.”