The search is on for Cumnock’s Citizen of the Year 2021, with nominations now being accepted for an individual or organisation who went above and beyond for their community this year.

The Keir McTurk Memorial Committee are seeking candidates for the award and say persons eligible must be resident in the Cumnock area including Netherthird, Craigens, Lugar and Logan.

Nominations are invited from either individuals or organisations and should be for any individual who, by his or her efforts, has brought credit, rendered a service or contributed to the community in an exceptional manner deserving recognition.

One example of someone fit for the accolade is last year’s winner - a retired school teacher from Lugar who showed an amazing attitude and good work ethic during her time in the role.

In 2020, Marion Wyllie scooped the title following a significant number of nominations all containing a very high level of content, and could not have been more shocked when a member of the committee came to her door to deliver the good news.

Speaking at the time, Marion said: “When he came to the door, I thought he was there to book the church hall, but then he mentioned citizen of the year.

“It’s an absolute honour, it takes a wee while for it to sink in.

“It’s a huge highlight for me after spending my full life in Lugar, it’s an absolute pleasure and a bit of a shock.”

Nomination forms can be obtained from churches, Words of Wisdom, Cumnock Post Office, Visions, Gillilands, Millie’s Tea Room, A & L Bryce Newsagent, Cumnock Health Centre, Cumnock Library and Netherthird Community Centre.

Completed, signed nomination forms must be returned in an enclosed envelope marked ‘nomination’ to William McVake, 21 Holmhead Road, Cumnock no later than January 31 2022.