Bravery awards

More than 50 emergency service workers and members of the public have been presented with Brave@Heart Awards recognising acts of bravery and heroism.

Police, fire and ambulance staff and other emergency responders were invited to nominate for the annual awards.

Of the 56 winners, nine were members of the public, three of whom also received the St Andrew’s Award for exceptional acts of bravery.

Speaking after presenting the awards at an event at Edinburgh Castle, the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:

“These awards recognise acts of true courage by members of the public, our emergency services and our voluntary rescue organisations. They are our way of saying a very big thank you to individuals who, through their bravery, have made a very positive difference to Scotland.

“Every single one of tonight’s award winners provides an extraordinary story of courage and calmness under pressure. Their spirit of selflessness and bravery is an inspiring example to us all.”

Chief Inspector Andy Thomson, member of the Brave@Heart 2019 validation panel, said:

“The panel were unanimously agreed that the nominations were all of a very high standard demonstrating selfless acts of courage and in a number of situations exceptional acts of bravery.”

Background

The first Brave@Heart annual reception was held in June 2010 along with the presentation of the St. Andrew’s Award for exceptional acts of bravery.

A list of Brave@heart winners is attached.