Lochinver woman who 'climbed Suilven' for charity is finalist in national awards
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The Lochinver woman who "climbed Suilven" to raise money for charity, is a finalist in the national Helping it Happen Awards 2020.
Margaret Payne is nominated in the Highland Community Champion of the Year category, facing competition from two Inverness groups, the Hello! Campaign 2020 - Highland Migrant and Refugee Advocacy (HiMRA), and Tulloch Homes.
Balmacara Estate, Kyle of Lochalsh, is a finalist in the Conservation Award category,
Now in its fourth year, the Helping it Happen Awards have become firmly established in recognising the role of estates, businesses and individuals who are helping rural Scotland thrive. The awards are organised by rural business organisation, Scottish Land & Estates.
Sarah-Jane Laing, chief executive of Scottish Land & Estates, said: “More than ever, this year has typified what Helping It Happen is all about – individuals, rural businesses and organisations going the extra mile to make a positive contribution to society. With four Highland entries named as finalists, it’s clear that the region is home to people and organisations which benefit those close to home and across Scotland by providing employment, helping their local communities or helping Scotland meet its environmental goals.
“The pandemic, and particularly the lockdown period, has given rise to many inspiring stories as people use their own talents, time and money to support their local communities. This is reflected in many of the nominations, particularly in the regional community champion awards. The nominations have been as strong as ever this year and we are pleased that the Helping It Happen Awards are firmly established as a way of recognising how Scotland’s diverse people and businesses are making a vital contribution.”
During lockdown, 90-year-old Margaret Payne of Ardvar completed the "Suilven Challenge", climbing the equivalent of Suilven on her stairs. She climbed 282 times over 73 days or 10 weeks. Over that time she raised £434,562 for NHS, NHS Highland, Highland Hospice and the RNLI, with more than half of this coming back into the Highlands."
