Local Heroes Announced as Finalists for Provost’s Civic Awards

Published 02 December 2025

The finalists for West Dunbartonshire’s Provost’s Civic Awards have been selected – with determined fundraisers, dedicated volunteers and impressive local leaders up for awards.

Residents were encouraged to nominate local heroes deserving of recognition—and the reaction was fantastic.

The public nominations recounted stories of kindness, resilience, and determination from people who have contributed significantly to improve the area and the lives of West Dunbartonshire residents.

After much deliberation, six individuals/groups have been named finalists. In the first category, Community Champion, the judging panel were looking for those who have gone above and beyond to make a difference in their local community, demonstrating community spirit and leading by example. The finalists were chosen because they motivate others to become engaged and make a real difference in their community.

Courtney Devenney has raised thousands of pounds for local charities in memory of her late father despite only being 14years old. Courtney has taken on ambitious activities to raise funds, like hiking and camping along the West Highland Way, zip-lining across the River Clyde and participating in the Kiltwalk.

The teen is nominated alongside Tommy Miller, a well-known figure in the Haldane community who has organised seasonal events ranging from Christmas tree lighting and gift-giving to Easter and summer activities to ensure every child feels involved and valued. His passion has expanded into a community-wide programme that has been running for several years.

St Patrick’s Lunch Club have also been shortlisted in our Community Champion category for their service to the local community, from serving hot meals every Monday at the church hall to delivering meals to the Council’s homeless units and the Women’s refuge in the Haldane. Through their selfless efforts, they support vulnerable community members with care and compassion.  

Also named as a finalist, Annette McPhie, 78, is a long-time volunteer whose contribution to local schools, hospital wards, community groups, and vulnerable individuals has had a huge influence throughout the Vale of Leven and beyond. She continues to take on new tasks, most notably researching ways Age Concern could better assist widows and widowers with financial issues.

The Citizen of the Year Award will be presented to an individual or group who has positively influenced society and made substantial contributions to West Dunbartonshire. The finalists were chosen for the pride they have shown in West Dunbartonshire and their genuine desire to effect long-term change and improve the lives of others.

Tony Ercoli was chosen by the judging panel after they heard how , in just three years, he had helped Flourishing Faifley deliver 22 free family events, welcome over 5,350 visitors to its community garden, and run eight weekly groups for over 150 people. His leadership has improved local areas and boosted community spirit across Faifley.

Joining him in this category is Yvonne O’Neill, Secretary of the Whitecrook Community Action Group. Yvonne has led projects from gardening and litter picks to youth support, while delivering food parcels to those in need. Her vision, energy, and tireless efforts, has inspired volunteers and strengthened community pride, bringing people together in meaningful ways.

The team of volunteers who run the Loch Lomond Rescue Boat are also finalists after showing true bravery as they save lives. They have responded to over 80 emergency callouts in 2025 alone—often leaving work, rising at 2am, or stepping away from family to help. Beyond rescues, they educate the public on water safety, showing incredible skill, dedication, and community spirit.

Provost Karen Murray Conaghan said: “Reading through this year’s nominations was a deeply touching experience. Every story shared reflects the very best of our area and the amazing people who live here. Everyone deserves recognition and we hope this event highlights the stories and gives recognition to those individuals who go above and beyond for their communities.

“The individuals and groups named as finalists should feel immensely proud of the difference they have made. They embody what it means to serve their community, and I look forward to welcoming them at the awards ceremony in January.”

All finalists will be invited to attend the event in January, where the winners will be announced.