The deadline for nominations is Friday 10 June and Jackie Baillie is urging local people to nominate an individual who has made a positive difference in their local communities.

Jackie said:

“The Scottish Parliament belongs to the people, not the politicians, and this is reflected in our official opening which puts our Local Heroes right at the heart of the event.

“This is an excellent opportunity to pay tribute to a local person who has inspired others through their leadership or bravery, volunteered their time or skills in the local community, or taken part in charity fundraising. I am looking for an outstanding individual that we can all be proud to call our Local Hero.”

All of Scotland’s 129 MSPs will join their Local Heroes in a ‘Riding’ procession down Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, along with around 2,000 other participants in a colourful, historic tradition. The Riding will feature people from all walks of public life and local community groups, plus music and entertainment.

Her Majesty The Queen will officially open the fifth session of the Scottish Parliament with an address to MSPs and their guests in the Chamber.

There will be a carnival atmosphere at Holyrood with the gardens and doors of the Parliament open to all to explore, observe and participate in a full programme of events including a mini-Highland games, Music and Dance, Science and Nature, Art activities for Kids and much more.

Jackie added:

“There are so many people in Dumbarton, Vale of Leven, Helensburgh and Lomond who deserve more recognition for the work they do in our community so it will be difficult to choose just one individual to be our Local Hero.

“If you can think of anyone who has made a positive difference to our local community then please get in touch with me with your nominations before Friday 10 June.”

Nominations should be sent before Friday 10 June by email to jackie.baillie.msp@parliament.scot or posted to Constituency Office, 11 Castle Street, Dumbarton, G82 1QS.