Double celebration for Sunny Radio Govan 103.5 FM

It was the disbelief and the joy on the faces of the Sunny Govan radio team that said it all.

Project manager Heather McMillan and her colleagues could hardly believe it when the community station was revealed as the winner of the Community Spirit category in the 20th annual Evening Times Local Heroes awards.

The award gave extra lustre to Sunny Govan’s twin anniversaries – 10 years serving Govan and one year on the FM frequency.

It came on an emotional afternoon when many people, including the host, DJ and Evening Times clubs columnist Heather Suttie, found themselves touched by the amazing dedication of many of the nominees.

The gala lunch, at the Park Hotel, Kilmarnock, belonged to all the nominees, groups and individuals, whether they won their categories or not.
Evening Times editor Donald Martin spoke of the “humbling and inspirational” nominees on show.

Deciding the winners in each of the three closely-fought group categories – they each received a cheque for £3000 – presented a headache for the judges.

It was no different in the Community Spirit bracket, where Sunny Govan 103.5FM emerged as winners.

“It is phenomenal to win – we are just delighted,” said Heather McMillan as the applause from the audience of 250 rang in her ears.

“It is a fantastic reward for all our volunteers. They are a diverse team and I am extremely proud of them. A lot of people have overcome many barriers to participate.

“We could not be sure if we would win or not, but we felt that was not important. It was all about being here as a team, and taking time out from the normal day-to-day activities.

“Sunny Govan started up by compiling a community directory, and as I was doing it, I was passionate about what I was seeing there.

“If it was not for the type of groups we are seeing here today, I do not think the directory, or the community radio, would have happened.”