Grimsay Boatshed Trust wins Dynamic Place Award 2003

An organisation in Uist which trains local youngsters in traditional boat-building skills to support the local fishing community, is one of 11 recipients across Scotland of a 2003 Dynamic Place Award. The awards, organised by Scottish Enterprise and sponsored by Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Communities Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage, recognise excellence in the development and regeneration of Scotlands urban and rural environments.

Grimsay Boatshed Trust which has been assisted by, amongst others, Scottish Arts Council Traditional Arts funding, received an award in the People, Training and Development category for Turning the Tide: The Boatshed at Kallin. The award organisers commented, The death of the last Grimsay boat builder threatened the demise of building and repair skills of fundamental importance to the fisheries on which many Uist families depend. This invaluable community workshop now maintains the local fleet and has ensured the continuity of local skills.

To see our feature on boat-building in Orkney - Click here.