An East Renfrewshire councillor has picked up an award for service to his community – and dedicated it to three residents who died recently.

David Macdonald, who represents the Clarkston, Netherlee and Williamwood ward, was presented with the Community Champion accolade at the LGIU Scotland and CCLA awards ceremony in Dundee.

The independent councillor was praised for working “tirelessly” to use his position to make sure residents’ voices are heard.

After he was presented with the award, Councillor Macdonald stated: “I’ve often said councillors are all community champions, regardless of whether we are in the category of Community Champion or not.

“But I would say it’s a little bit easier for me in my ward because I have such an engaged community that really wants to play a part.”

Councillor Macdonald added that he is dedicating the award to three members of Busby Community Council – George McLachlan, Evelyn Baxter and Mamie Muir – who recently passed away.

“Their dedication to their community gave me so much inspiration to be a community voice for people and I will continue to encourage and support others to follow in their example,” he said.

Councillor Macdonald was up against two rivals from neighbouring Renfrewshire – Stephen Burns, of the SNP, and Neill Graham, of the Conservatives – as well as fellow Independent representative Uisdean Robertson, of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, and Ann Ross, of Aberdeenshire Council, who represents the Conservatives.

He added: “It is such an honour to receive such a prestigious award and to win from a group of such worthy contenders makes the experience all the more special.

“I am truly blessed to represent the fantastic communities of Busby, Clarkston, Netherlee, Stamperland and Williamwood.”