Falkirk leisure schemes in the frame for national awards glory

Lynne Boslem of the Camelon Community Sport Hub is a contender in the Outstanding Volunteer Award category for her passionate approach to the development of gymnastics in the area.

Meanwhile the Active Forth project has been shortlisted for the Community Impact Award’s physical activity category.

The scheme includes, for example, the option of a personalised gym programme and classes such as Otago, strength and balance, aqua gtm and spinning at its four clubs.

FCT works “very closely” with NHS Forth Valley and has had over 1,500 referrals since January last year.

In the arts, culture and libraries categories the “care words” scheme has also been shortlisted.

In 2015 Falkirk Libraries worked in partnership with a local Alzheimer’s Scotland group to pilot reading and reminiscence sessions.

Maureen Campbell OBE, chief executive of Falkirk Community Trust, said: “This is great news for Falkirk and a significant achievement for our staff to be recognised on the national stage.

“The nominations are a result of the hard work by a number of people and I’d like to thank all for their contributions.

“The programmes shortlisted for the awards go a long way to demonstrating our continued commitment to improving the general health and wellbeing of the Falkirk area.

“We look forward to the outcome of the awards and to sharing our story with our peers”.

The winners will be announced on Wednesday, May 20 at the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester.