By John Lamont MP
The Borders is filled with kind and inspirational people who give up their own time to help others.
That's why I run a competition every year to recognise the unsung heroes who make a real difference to people's lives but don't always get the recognition or praise they deserve.
I started my Volunteer of the Year awards to celebrate the many dedicated and selfless people in the Borders who do whatever they can to help others.
The competition receives hundreds of nominations and it's always difficult to pick out just a few winners each year.
Previously, awards have gone to a whole host of amazing individuals.
Jedburgh legend Chico Woods received one for all his volunteering efforts, as did Graham Easton from Selkirk for helping the Royal British Legion, Selkirk Rotary Club and Cycling Without Age.
Madge Thomson from Hawick was recognised for helping survivors of abuse, and I had the pleasure of giving one award to Megan Bilsland from Galashiels for her work with Downs Syndrome Scotland and the charity Interest Link Borders.
Another winner was Alan Foster for his incredible efforts for Greenlaw FC.
I also had the privilege of presenting one award to Audrey Triebel from Kelso, who saved Little Explorers nursery from closure.
This year's winners are just as deserving and dedicated to helping their communities.
One winner was Kyle McKinlay who coaches young teams at Tweedbank Thistle Football Club. I heard from numerous people who praised his patience and his commitment. He is making a big difference and I was pleased to recognise his efforts.
Another winner this year was David Shepherd who is involved in numerous organisations including Presenting Coldstream, Coldstream Football Club and Coldstream Bowling Club. He deserves a lot of praise for the work he does to make local events a success and to keep the area beautiful, for instance the rejuvenation of Henderson Park.
And my final award this year didn't go to an individual, but to a whole group of amazing people who deserve special recognition. The volunteers at Lavender Touch in Galashiels provide incredible support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. Their help makes an incredibly difficult time just a little bit easier.
It was an honour to present these outstanding people with awards and I am already looking forward to receiving your nominations for next year's competition, so we can once again recognise champions in our local communities.
