A TEENAGER who took the plunge at a pioneering charity where he now volunteers has picked up a prestigious award.
Lewis Gourlay has come “such a long way on his little journey” after starting out on a six-week surf therapy course at The Wave Project.
Since then, he has gone from strength to strength and now volunteers with the group, which is based at Belhaven Bay.
The Dunbar teenager was celebrating at The Forth Awards after collecting the Forth Cash for Kids Award.
Alison Young, Edinburgh and Lothians project co-ordinator, said: “He has just come on such a long way on his little journey with us.
“He has been with us six years and he was shy and scared to take off his clothes and put on a wetsuit.
“We ended up getting him into a wetsuit, he has stuck with us for six years and he has thrived.”
The awards, which took place at a sold-out Usher Hall, brought together huge names from the world of entertainment, as well as deserving people from Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife who had achieved incredible things.
Sixteen-year-old Lewis was recognised for his progress from a beginner to volunteer at The Wave Project, which aims to improve children’s health and wellbeing through surfing.
A spokesperson for Dunbar Grammar School congratulated the S5 pupil on his success.
They said: “Lewis completed an initial six-week surf therapy course at The Wave Project and has gone from being a surfer to giving support to others.
“He does this with genuine care and kindness, and is sensitive to the struggles and anxieties of others.
“He goes out of his way to make others laugh, feel comfortable and get the most out of their sessions.”
Also celebrating at the awards was Callum Beattie.
The Musselburgh singer-songwriter, famous for hits such as Salamander Street and Don’t Walk Alone, took home the Forth Best Artist Award.
The 35-year-old previously won a ‘One to Watch’ award and entertained the audience with a performance of Salamander Street.
He said: “I’m really fortunate that I’ve had the country behind me selling out concerts.”
Other award winners on the night included 1980s pop duo Hue and Cry, who received the Recognition Award, and Dunfermline’s Jack ‘O’Bryan, which took home the Best Restaurant Award.
Richie Jeffrey, head of events, said: “The Forth Awards are always a really special afternoon as we celebrate local listeners who go over and above for their communities.
“Today was no exception as our sold-out crowd in the Usher Hall enjoyed non-stop entertainment, music and comedy, as well as inspiring stories from our worthy winners.
“Forth 1 are delighted to be able to shine a spotlight on these people and recognise them as pillars of our local community, and we’d like to thank today’s audience for supporting the event year after year.”
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