A Dennistoun community worker feels "fantastic" after grabbing gold at the Glasgow Community Champion Awards this month.
Kenny Trainer, project manager at the Bluevale Community Centre, recently won The Individual Award at the 2022 ceremony.
The annual award ceremony, organised by Glasgow Times and Glasgow City Council, is designed to pay tribute to inspirational locals making a difference in their area.
Kenny was in a category alongside Laura Torrance, of Spinal Injuries Scotland, and Amanda Smith, but it was the East End local who came out victorious.
However, due to illness, Kenny was unable to bask in the stage's spotlight.
So, we caught up with the East End local on Wednesday to find out his reaction to the esteemed acknowledgement.
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Kenny said: "It feels fantastic to win this because since Bluevale started, it has taken a massive amount of work and it sort of takes over your life and your family's life too.
"So, to get a bit of recognition for that really is overwhelming, so to speak.
"But, I want to make it clear that although this is an individual award, it is a whole team effort because the individual is nothing without the team.
"We have some fantastic youth workers, and volunteers who give up their time constantly, so this award is dedicated to the whole team at Bluevale."
Kenny went on to state that the Bluevale team were "over the moon" when they heard the news.
He said: "They couldn't believe it.
"We are still a relatively new charity and to win that award as a new charity is absolutely unbelievable.
"To be recognised by an organisation like the Evening Times is just fantastic."
Reflecting on the award, Kenny believes that the win has stemmed from the Bluevale's ability to cater for everyone, rather than just one group.
He said: "There are loads of charities out there that are doing absolutely amazing work.
"I actually read about the people nominated with me and I thought it is a really tough ask to win it.
"But I think what sets us apart is that we look to provide the whole system approach.
"We provide activities for the elderly, young people, those suffering from addiction and adults looking to improve their mental and physical health."
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Kenny went on to state that what is coming up for Bluevale ahead of the new year is going to be "fantastic".
He added: "It's just a big push towards Christmas now, to make sure that local people aren't going without over Christmas."
To find the full list of Glasgow Community Champion Awards winners, click HERE
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