Heroes don't realise full impact of their efforts
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SEEING all the shortlisted Highland Heroes under one roof at last year's inaugural awards ceremony was an emotional experience for Sandy Macleod.
The owner of north firm Macleod Roofing believes it is important to celebrate those who give their time and energy to help others in our community.
That's why he's chosen to sponsor the charity fundraiser of the year category again at the 2018 awards.
Mr Macleod said: "I don't think anyone expected the night of awards that we experienced last year.
"It was an emotional event with most of the nominees' stories bringing tears to the eyes of all in attendance.
"The nominees and winners were thinking, 'it's all in a day's work' or 'I just did it because it was the right thing to do' and did not fully recognise the impact their commitment to the cause was having. None of the nominees set out to be in the public eye but it's our job to put them there, giving them the recognition they deserve."
Readers of five Scottish Provincial Press titles across the north are being encouraged to nominate people they feel are Highland Heroes in their community. A judging panel will draw up a shortlist in each of the 12 categories before readers are given the opportunity to vote for their favourites.
The charity fundraiser award will go to somebody who has gone the extra mile to raise money for a charity or good cause in the Highlands.
It can be difficult to ask people to donate their money to a cause you really believe in time after time but without this commitment from determined fundraisers Highland charities would be worse off.
Mr Macleod said: "The charity fundraiser has a difficult job and I personally admire how hard they work for the good of their chosen charity.
"I was overwhelmed last year when listening to some of the amounts raised by individuals, through their own hard work and the generosity of the Highland folk."
Macleod Roofing is keen to support charitable efforts and Mr Macleod says he considers it part of the firm's remit now.
"Raising money for a charity of your choice can be fun when combining it with something you enjoy, such as your favourite sport," he said.
"Macleod Roofing donates to a number of charities directly and indirectly, local and UK wide.
"We donated to several competitors in the Highland Cross this year and others completing various hill climbs, sponsored walks and cycles. I think this year we've even had a couple of head shaves and a waxing!"
To nominate somebody you feel deserves recognition in this or any other category, fill in this form and post it to Highland Heroes, Scottish Provincial Press, New Century House, Stadium Road, Inverness, IV1 1FG or email it to heroes@spp-group.com. You can also nominate your Highland Heroes online at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/HighlandHeroes2018
The deadline for nominations is midnight on Saturday, September 1.
The winners will be announced at a ceremony at the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness on Thursday, November 8.
Mr Macleod added: "Highland Heroes is in its second year and already it has helped shine the spotlight on those who do good.
"The newspaper coverage and award ceremony make people more aware of the charities around us and we're able to identify those who are doing an exceptional job.
"I would encourage readers to nominate anyone they think is deserving of an award."
