Moray & Banffshire Heroes 2025: VOTE NOW for your community champion
VOTE for your community champion by midnight on Monday, March 24!
READ the shortlist in full.
Iain Sandison
“I DIDN’T realise I’d been quite so busy,” was Iain Sandison from Portknockie’s response to hearing he’d been shortlisted for the community champion of the year award.
As a young teen, Iain was inspired to become a special constable before going on to join the Special Constabulary and earn a Chief Constable’s commendation. He volunteered as an instructor for the Army Cadets, contributed to the Cullen Youth Club, and volunteered for 16 years with HM Coastguard in Buckie.
In 2011, Iain suffered severe injuries in a workplace accident. Despite the setback, Iain continued to volunteer adding the Scottish Ambulance Service Wildcats and Community First Responder to his list.
His nomination said: “Iain’s selflessness and dedication continue to inspire and make a difference to those around him.”
Iain said: “After the accident I wasn’t able to continue with the coastguard voluntary work so I set about finding something else that I could do to help people. I was never one to study through books and I’m really happy to be able to pass on my knowledge to anyone else who learns best in a hands-on environment.”
Ks Coffee Shop
THE unwavering generosity of a coffee shop in Forres has made a lasting impact on the local community, earning the owners a spot on the shortlist for community champions.
Sisters-in-law Sue Farish and Steph Wallace opened Ks Coffee Shop in July 2023 in memory of Sue’s late husband (Steph's brother) Kevan, who Sue described as a ‘coffee snob.’ In the past two years, they’ve opened their doors on Christmas Day, offering free food, drinks, and entertainment to anyone who bought a cup of coffee.
Their nomination reads: “Ks Coffee Shop has become a beacon of kindness and generosity in the Forres community. Their heartwarming Christmas event welcomed over 130 people from all walks of life, including those who might otherwise have been alone. Their gesture showcases the true spirit of community and compassion. This remarkable initiative wasn’t just about providing a meal, it was about fostering connection and spreading joy.”
Sue shared: “This nomination brings a tear to my eye because that’s exactly what we wanted to offer the community. We’re really touched. The moment we announced our idea, local people donated homemade cakes, bread and cash. It’s a perfect example of what community means in Forres.”
Tracy Gourlay
‘TESCO Tracy’ is said to be the heart and soul of Elgin, pouring her energy into brightening the lives of everyone she meets.
Tracy Gourlay has been employed by Tesco for more than 20 years; she became the supermarket’s community champion five years ago.
Her official role is to give back to the community, but what she does goes above and beyond.
Tracy’s nomination said: “Tracy has so much care and compassion for everyone she knows; she makes a difference in so many people’s lives whether that’s through a local school or nursery or a care home. Everyone loves her visits, her constant positivity, and ability to make the day brighter.
She goes to extreme lengths to ensure each and every event she attends is full of fun, genuine caring and lots of laughter.”
Tracy said: “It’s the most rewarding job I’ve ever had; people are so appreciative of the attention, support and care. I’m passionate about fundraising and seeing the money put to good use in the community. It’s a pleasure to be welcomed and involved. This nomination means the world to me.”
The community champion award is sponsored by Walkers
Jill Armitt from Walkers said: “The Heroes awards are such a great event to celebrate and recognise those that have gone above and beyond. Our people are the essence of our business and our place in the community is of huge importance to us.
“Therefore community champion is a fitting award for us to sponsor. There are so many people who do so much for others, please take your time to vote.”
