Brownie's community efforts appreciated

Tarbert shopkeeper John ‘Brownie’ Morrison’s exceptional contribution to community life has been recognised with the presentation of a Highly Commended BBC award.

Brownie was nominated for the BBC Radio nan Gaidheal Award (part of the BBC’s Duaisean Dèan Diofar/Make a Difference Awards) which celebrates an inspiring individual or group of community heroes.

His efforts were also acknowledged in a short film, in which he shared stories about his time at the village shop. Brownie was nominated by Lena Morrison, who works next door and heard customers remember the many ways in which he has helped them over the years.

“There were so many stories about the extra things that Brownie had done for his customers, particularly those who were elderly,” said Lena. “For example, one lady struggled with cutting swede – and she found that he had chopped up the one she had bought and left it ready for her dinner.”

Brownie was one of four shortlistees for the award, judged by mountain biker Kerry MacPhee. He received his Highly Commended prize at a presentation in Stornoway, from 'Feasgar an-diugh' presenter Emma Lamont.

In the weeks since his retirement, Brownie has been training for the Budapest Marathon, which he will run in support of Calum’s Cabin in the Hungarian capital on October 12th. Writing on Facebook, he said: “I’ll be running in aid of Calum’s Cabin, a wonderful charity that provides holiday homes for fami lies affected by childhood cancer. Their work is truly invaluable, offering families the chance to spend precious quality time to gether during incredibly difficult periods. If you are able to donate, it would be greatly appreciated!”

Just Giving Link: John Morrison is fundraising for Calums Cabin