2 weeks Ago
The award has been part of village life since 1993, when it was set up by Bill and Sheila Black, who previously owned Manor Garage. It recognises people who make a ‘significant and lasting’ impact on West Linton. Mr Forsyth is described as the “very definition of a committed community member”.
He has lived in West Linton all his life, attending both West Linton Primary School and Peebles High School. After starting his working life at Findlay Irvine in Penicuik, he retrained as a mature student at Moray House and later became a technical teacher. He eventually became head of department at Peebles High School before retiring.
His dedication to West Linton goes far beyond his professional work. Mr Forsyth has given countless hours to volunteering and supporting local projects, always without seeking attention. His love of sport, especially football, began early when he played for the original Linton Hotspur.
Later, as a teacher, he helped with school football across the area, coaching and managing teams with care. When the Hotspur club was dormant, Mr Forsyth was one of the people who worked hard to bring it back, helping it grow into the active club it is today. He has also played a key part in West Linton’s Whipman tradition, holding several leadership positions, including serving as president.
His work has helped keep the event going strong, bringing the community together year after year. Many local improvement projects have benefited from his involvement. One example is the refresh of the War Memorial, which now stands as a respectful and well-maintained tribute to the fallen, especially as VE Day approaches.
Recently, Mr Forsyth organised a community event in support of Marie Curie, timed with the blooming of spring daffodils. Marie Curie provides important end-of-life care and relies on donations for 80 per cent of its funding. At the community event, held at Linton Hotspur’s clubhouse, Mark McDavid, chair of West Linton Community Council, said: “Neil, on behalf of the West Linton community, thank you for your dedication, your steady leadership, your willingness to get stuck in and your lasting contribution to West Linton.
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