A NATIONAL award has made its way into the hands of South Ayrshire Council.

The prestigious recognition for the Councils efforts to bring empty homes back into use was recognised at the Howden Scottish Empty Homes Champions of the Year Awards in Stirling.

Empty Homes officer Lesley Cockburn who led the project picked up the certificate for the Outstanding Project Award that is part of an initiative to buy-back ex-local authority housing in areas of high demand.

Lesley explained her joy at picking up the award for the Council and that the work they are doing is for the benefit of the Town.

She said: “It’s a great privilege to accept this award. Through joint-working we not only breathe life back into empty properties, we increase affordable housing in the area and provide secure tenancies for households on our waiting list.

It is very satisfying to achieve recognition for this project and I hope to continue with it into the future.”

Councillor Philip Saxton, Housing and Community Wellbeing Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said: “I am delighted for the team, this award is very well deserved and highlights our commitment to provide quality social housing which suits the needs of our tenants. We will continue to work with our partners to identify and secure existing housing stock to meet demand.”