New Burgess of Forres sought

THE hunt is now one for people who are considered to be worthy of the title ‘Burgess of The Royal Burgh of Forres’.

Nominations are being sought by organisers of the 2012 Scottish Week, when the new Burgess titles will be awarded.

As committee members from the Forres Communities Activities Association draw up their battle plan for next year’s summer sizzler, they want to receive nominations for individuals who deserve to be recognised.

The week-long timetable of events for Scottish Week is being held between Saturday, June 16 and Saturday, June 24.

The title of Burgess is traditionally awarded during Scottish Week, to an individual who has shown outstanding voluntary service to the community of Forres.

George Alexander, from the FCAA said that the committee is very keen that no possible candidate is overlooked.

What sort of person would qualify? Names of past and present Burgesses can be viewed on the boards in the Tolbooth on any Saturday morning during the run up to Christmas when the “Light up a Life” volunteers are on duty in the foyer of the Tolbooth.

Anyone who wishes to nominate possible Burgess candidates can write to the ‘Gazette’ office at 133-135 High Street, Forres IV36 1DP or email to newsdesk@forres-gazette.co.uk.

They must include their own full details for information purposes, and fully explain the reasons for the nomination.

The nominations will be passed to the FCAA who will announce those who will be made a new ‘Burgess’ next year.

Among the honours traditionally bestowed to a ‘Burgess of Forres’ is the right to drive his or her sheep down the High Street!