Alex Kerr, the SNP MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, is calling on constituents to nominate a local hero to join him at the official opening of the Scottish Parliament on June 27.
The Parliament is seeking 129 individuals—one for each MSP—who have made outstanding contributions to communities across Scotland. Each MSP has been asked to nominate someone from their area who has gone above and beyond to improve the lives of others.
Those selected as local heroes will be invited by the Scottish Parliament to attend the opening ceremony as a special guest of their MSP. The event, which will take place on Saturday, June 27, will formally mark the beginning of the new parliamentary session.
How to Nominate
Mr Kerr said: "Our communities are home to countless individuals who make an extraordinary difference to the lives of others every day—and very often do not ask for anything in return. That is why I am inviting nominations from across our communities and would encourage anyone who knows someone making a positive impact in their community to get in touch. This is a wonderful opportunity to recognise and thank those whose generosity, hard work and community spirit make a difference to the lives of others."
Anyone wishing to nominate a local hero should contact Alex Kerr MSP by email at alex.kerr.msp@parliament.scot with details of the individual and why they deserve recognition. The deadline for nominations is Tuesday, June 16, at 9am.
Presiding Officer's Remarks
Presiding officer Kenneth Gibson MSP said: "The start of a new Parliament is to me all about optimism, hope and a renewal of the purpose behind why the parliament exists. It's about bringing the people of Scotland along with us at the start of that journey as well as celebrating the very best of our culture and heritage too. I am always humbled by the selflessness of people across the country who go to extraordinary lengths to give back to their communities. I look forward to celebrating our local heroes and hearing more about their achievements."
Local heroes have taken part in the opening ceremonies of the Scottish Parliament in 2007, 2011, 2016 and 2021. Previous local heroes have included people who have volunteered their time for charities, set up creative ways to fundraise to help local causes, or supported others in various ways.
