SAUCHIE activity leader Sandra Gruar was named Clackmannanshire’s Citizen of the year 2009 for her desire to help the area’s young people spend their time in a productive way.

 

The group offers diverse classes and workshops from sign language and first aid to sports clubs and health and beauty.

After claiming the prize a delighted Sandra said: “I’m absolutely over the moon to receive this award.

 

“It was fantastic just to be nominated against all these people who have done so much for the community but to win is unbelievable. All the other nominees have done so much for their community and Clackmannanshire in general and it truly is an honour to be here tonight.

 

“The Active8 project comprises of a range of activities for all age groups and the Sauchie community have really taken to the number of classes.

 

"We’ve just secured Fairer Scotland funding for another year so this award just tops off a great week.”

 

Her dedication to the local community helped bring about the reintroduction of the Sauchie Gala last year after an absence of 30 years.

 

Speaking to the Wee County News she said: “I’d like to thank everyone who has helped me with Active 8 because I couldn’t have done it without them. The community have been great and we aim to keep the good work going. It was great to get the gala back in Sauchie because it encourages the idea of community spirit within the area.”