CUMNOCK twins have been recognised for their outstanding work in the community.

Ryan and Lewis McGregor, 19, were each highly commended in the College Candidate of the Year category, following their graduation.

The brothers were nominated by their tutors at Ayrshire college for combining a commitment to their studies while volunteering in their community.

Using skills they had learned on campus they helped improve Cumnock by making it a healthier place to live.

It comes after both the former HND Sports Coaching students at Ayrshire College were praised for their dedication to lifelong learning at this year’s Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) Star Awards.

The brothers are now studying towards degrees in Coaching and Development at the University of the West of Scotland.

The SQA Star Awards recognise the achievements of individuals working towards SQA qualifications as well as the schools, colleges, training providers and employers who help to deliver SQA qualifications — that enable learners to achieve their ambitions.

Donna Graham was highlycommended in the Training Organisation Candidate of the Year category, having been a high performer throughout her construction apprenticeship through Ayr-based training provider’s JB Management (Scotland) Ltd.

Ayrshire College was also highly commended in the Partnership of the Year category, for a project with South Ayrshire Council and Morrison Construc tion which has provided a unique learning opportunity for students. Ayrshire College students who used football to promote positive mental health, were also highly commended in the Innovation of the Year category.

Ryan, Lewis, and the rest of the Ayrshire finalists were joined by other nominees from across the country and further afield at a glittering ceremony at Glasgow’s renowned Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

SQA Chief Executive, Fiona Robertson, said: “The SQA Star Awards are a fantastic celebration of the commitment, and talent of young people from across Scotland, and the dedication of the teams at SQA centres that deliver our courses and qualifications here in Scotland, across the rest of the UK, and around the world. I have been inspired by the stories that I have heard tonight, especially the entrepreneurial spirit shown by our two Pride o’ Worth winners. It has been a pleasure to meet with all of our finalists this evening, and I congratulate every single person here on their outstanding achievements.”

Education Se cretary John Swinney said: “All those receiving awards and commendation have shown an outstanding drive and devotion to learning in their chosen field. My congratulations to the winners and finalists for their achievements. The variety of routes taken by the learners across the categories demonstrates the immense diversity of their ambitions, and I am grateful to the SQA for its work in creating and expanding the options available.”

The SQA Star Awards were hosted by TV personality and entrepreneur Carole Smillie and are supported by a number of sponsors, including the General Teaching Council for Scotland, Skills Development Scotland, and the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework Partnership