A GARNOCK Valley charity worker has been named Glaswegian of the Year at the Glasgow Awards 2017.

James Smith was nominated by members of the public in recognition of his work within the local community and beyond.

The dad of one founded Hillhead Pets Corner in Kilbirnie, which aims to help vulnerable families increase their quality of life by experiencing the outdoors.

In partnership with the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, John Muir Awards, Enable Scotland and others, James offers workshops, events and activities around wildlife and bio-diversity at the charity.

James is also an ambassador for the charity, Children 1st, and for Glasgow adoption organisation, Families for Children, and has a seat on the Children’s Panel. Along with his husband Neil, the radio and STV2 presenter has fostered over 50 children.

James said that he was “so shocked and surprised” and “felt totally overwhelmed” when he heard that he was a finalist in the Glasgow Awards. When he was later announced as a winner at a ceremony in Glasgow’s Crowne Plaza, he said that he was “speechless”.

The Glasgow Awards are a celebration of the success and achievements of the Glasgow community – the people and the businesses that work tirelessly to make a difference and contribute to the development of the city.

Glaswegian of the Year acknowledges an individual who is dedicated to making the city a better place through a number of initiatives.

James said: “I am very proud to accept this prestigious award, the Glaswegian of the Year Award 2017. It’s such an amazing honour.

“I have achieved so much and I am so happy doing what I do.”

He added: “I received an email from The Glasgow Awards organisers to say that they were delighted to inform me that I have been recognised by the public for the Glaswegian of the Year Award and that I was a finalist. Well, I was so shocked and surprised, so I contacted them and asked them about this award.

“They said that they had been running a campaign asking people to vote for their favourite person throughout Glasgow that does selfless acts to support the people of Glasgow. They said that I had been recognised based on the high number of nominations received from the public who have been voting over the last month.

“I had no idea about these awards and felt totally overwhelmed. After a few days I thought I will never be awarded this because there are so many other people out there.”

Regan Johnson, West of Scotland Community Fundraiser at Children 1st, described James as “passionate, dedicated and an absolute pleasure to work with”.

In her statement in support of James’ nomination, she said: “His support to Children 1st is incredible and we can’t thank him enough for all that he has done and is planning to do. He is incredibly generous with his time and support.”

Paul Woodward, Director and Station Manager at Scene Radio CIC, added: “James is a staunch advocate of LGBT+ issues and it amazes me that he finds the time not only to present for Scene Radio but also on STV2.”