Blairgowrie and Rattray’s community work celebrated at Holyrood reception
Date: Tuesday 2 December
Work to improve life in Blairgowrie and Rattray was recognised in the Scottish Parliament recently when representatives from Blairgowrie and Rattray Development Trust (BRDT) and Blairgowrie and Rattray Community Council (BRCC) attended a special reception for finalists of the 2025 Scotland Loves Local Awards hosted by Minister for Public Finance, Ivan McKee MSP.
Blairgowrie and Rattray was the runner-up in the Town of the Year category of this year’s awards, which was won by Paisley.
Judges evaluating the awards submissions heard how efforts to ensure that Blairgowrie and Rattray develop as a sustainable town are enhancing both the quality of life and wellbeing of its local communities.
The aspirations highlighted in the new Local Place Plan – which was the first to be registered by Perth and Kinross Council - and the Community Action Plan for Blairgowrie and Rattray underpin everything that BRDT works towards.
The community-led organisation works closely with local groups and organisations, Perth and Kinross Council, businesses and the wider community to create a wonderful place for people to live, work and visit.
Linda Tait, chair of BRDT, was at the Scottish Parliament for the reception.
She said: “All of us at BRDT and BRCC would like to congratulate Paisley on winning this prestigious award.
“We are very proud to have been shortlisted as it recognises the wonderful community spirit we have here in Blairgowrie and Rattray and the efforts of the hundreds of volunteers who give so graciously of their time in support of others.
“The town has made great strides forward over the past few years, making it a better place to live, work and visit and recognition from initiatives such as the Scotland Loves Local Awards shows that we are on the right track as we work towards a brighter future for our beautiful town.”
Spearheaded by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP) and supported by the Scottish Government, Scotland Loves Local champions the importance of choosing local and supporting local businesses to building stronger, fairer, wealthier and more sustainable communities.
Kimberley Guthrie, STP’s Chief Officer, said: “Through Scotland Loves Local this year, we have been celebrating the fact that it’s people who make places. The achievements of the winners and finalists in our awards are testament to that fact.
“Through their vision, innovation and determination, they are helping to create a new future not only for the places they call home, but inspiring communities the length and breadth of the country.
“Community-led activity is at the forefront of positive change across Scotland. We have seen a real resurgence in that in recent years - and it’s critical for our economy that we keep that momentum going. Everyone can play their part in supporting that by choosing local.”
For more information, see www.brdt.org.uk or follow Blairgowrie and Rattray Development Trust on social media.
For further information or media enquiries, please contact Clare McMicking on telephone 07514 343 042 or email media@brdt.org.uk
