Alness has high hopes for votes

AN Easter Ross community flying the flag for high streets across the county needs public support to claim a prestigious title and fuel the area’s feelgood factor.

Easter Ross MP Jamie Stone is urging votes for Alness in the Great British High Street Awards.

Mr Stone said: "As someone who uses Alness High Street on a regular basis, I can vouch for just how vital it is. The variety and standard of the High Street businesses should be the envy of other communities, and it is a real tribute to people like Councillor Carolyn Wilson and her team who put so much work in. I hope Alness runs away with the prize and I encourage everyone to join me in voting!"

David Groundwater, north-east Scotland development manager for the Federation of Small Businesses, said the awards "play a huge part in putting local high streets and town centres on the agenda", adding: "Much has been made of the decline of the high street due to out-of-town shopping centres, 24-hour online retailers and bank closures but it’s not all doom and gloom.

"It’s fantastic to see businesses across the country and in particular in Alness work together to go that extra mile and offer something different for their customers and potential customers. Turning round the fortunes of the high street requires a collective effort and businesses in Alness should be applauded on their efforts in leading the way."

Carolyn Wilson, who herself runs a business on the High Street, said locals had worked together well to improve both the environment and the retail offering.

Online support for Alness in the Visa-sponsored event can be made by posting #GBHSAlness alongside #MYHIGHSTREET on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram by October 31.

Winners will be announced on November 16.