South Scotland MSP and deputy convener of the Scottish Parliament’s Cross Party Group on China Colin Smyth is calling on local people from the Scottish-Chinese community to put themselves forward for a new award designed to recognise their achievements and contributions to national life.

Nominations are now open for The Blossom Awards which aim to identify high achievers from the Scottish-Chinese and British-Chinese Community across the country in a range of fields from science and the creative industries to business and voluntary work.

The Awards aim to recognise unsung heroes like teachers, NHS staff and charity leaders, and those who have achieved success in professional fields like engineering, technology and business.

The Blossom Awards are the first ever accolades focused exclusively on the Scottish-Chinese Community – one of Scotland’s largest and most established ethnic minority group.

Colin Smyth said: “Scottish-Chinese people are doing inspirational work in communities across our area and across Scotland, and the Blossom Awards shine a light on their success and contribution.

“From business and the arts to science and the charity sector, the Awards also enable Scottish-Chinese people to challenge outdated perceptions about their identity.

“Please encourage a friend, family member, neighbour or colleague who deserves recognition to nominate themselves.”

Nominations are now open and close on Friday 12 June 2020 and must be submitted online: www.TheBlossomAwards.org.uk

Award Winners will be invited to a ceremony in central London in late October 2020.