A host of local heroes took a bow at a ceremony to celebrate their remarkable efforts.


Among those honoured with a Provost’s Distinction Certificate was daredevil fundraiser Peter Stewart, who insists he has no intention of abandoning his work to support good causes...despite reaching the age of 91.


Peter’s latest exploits saw him abseil down the Forth Bridge for Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland, inspired by his late wife May.


He said: “After she died, I saw an article in a newspaper looking for people who wanted to abseil off the Falkirk Wheel. I decided to go for it and have loved doing that sort of thing ever since.

“The support I have received has been phenomenal. I think that, for the latest jump, we raised nearly £1,500.”

Other community heroes who received an award from Renfrewshire Provost Lorraine Cameron include Anne and John Bellshaw, who have spent decades raising cash for MND Scotland and Paisley’s Accord Hospice.


There was also praise for Stephen Torrance, who is a long-time supporter of the Choose Life and SOBS group in Renfrewshire.
Inspired by the memory of his brother Vinny, who took his own life in 2009, Stephen has raised not only money but also awareness of the issue of male suicide.


Awards also went to the Howwood Emergency Amateur Response Team (HEART); businessman Rekz Afzal, who created a community fridge at his Paisley shop; taxi driver Brian McClure, whose quick thinking saved the life of a woman who had suffered a heart attack; and Margaret Beacom, who has been looking after her neighbour through a long-term illness.


To nominate someone for an award, visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/provost