AWARDS celebrating the efforts of individuals and tenants’ and residents’ groups across East Lothian have been handed out.

East Lothian Tenants and Residents Panel (ELTRP) rounded off 2023 by holding its annual Sparkle Awards.

Groups from across the county were invited to Haddington’s Maitlandfield House Hotel to recognise the “amazing work” undertaken by people in their communities in the past 12 months.

During the evening, six awards were handed out to people who had worked hard to improve the lives of others.

Councillor Andy Forrest, housing convenor, presented two awards in the ‘Outstanding contribution to the local community by a tenants and residents group’ category.

Musselburgh’s Brunton Court Tenants Group received the prize alongside the Harkness Crescent Tenants and Residents Association (TRA), which is based in Tranent.

The award for an individual who has shown leadership within their tenants’ and residents’ group and tried their best to work for the benefits of their local group and community was presented to Susan Forgie, of Haddington Central TRA, by Sharon Donohoe, from the Tenants Information Service.

Councillor Shamin Akhtar, who represents the Haddington and Lammermuir ward, presented the new local group award to Well Wynd Tenants Group.

The Tranent group has been up and running only since early 2023 but, in this short space of time, has pushed forward a variety of improvements to its sheltered housing complex, demonstrating its passion and determination to improve and enhance the living space.

The Sparkle Spotlight Award recognises an individual member of East Lothian Council staff who has demonstrated a commitment to empowering tenants, residents and community groups.

The award was presented in absentia to Wendy Neill, of the local authority’s print unit, by Jim Herron, chair of ELTRP.

The final award – the Jeanette Boyd Award – was presented to Alan Dunton, from Haddington East Tenants and Residents Association, by Wendy McGuire, East Lothian Council’s head of housing.

The accolade recognises an inspiring volunteer who has demonstrated an exceptional commitment and passion by adding value to their local area and improving community spirit.