UnstFest shortlisted for community project of the year 

UnstFest, the UK’s most northerly festival, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the category for Community Project of the Year by The Herald Society Awards 2015.

Since its inception in 2008, UnstFest has grown to become a staple in the Shetland calendar with visitors travelling from all over to take part.

According to UnstFest chairwoman Megan Burns, the festival boasts a “diverse and enthusiastic” committee of volunteers, who work closely with the whole of the Unst community to put on an annual programme of events, with something for everyone.

UnstFest 2016 will take place on 16^th – 24^th July 2016, and will again be a “showcase of community engagement, commitment and togetherness”.

Ms Burns said on Friday: “We got the news yesterday that we had been shortlisted. I am delighted about it. We try to make a point every year to inform everyone how much the community does for the festival. Their input is really fundamental.

“Without the community the festival would not happen and that’s one of the elements that make it such a success. The fact we have been shortlisted in the community project category just highlights the impact of the community on the voluntary sector.”

The Herald Society Awards was launched in 2008 with intention to recognise the achievements, dedication and imagination of work taking place in the public and voluntary sector. The awards will be presented at a gala awards evening on Wednesday 4^th November 2015 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Glasgow.

Ms Burns will be present at the event along with one other Unst resident, Anna Macaulay, who has previously had input to the festival. You can keep up with the latest announcements regarding this through the UnstFest Facebook page.