KINROSS-SHIRE CIVIC Trust have launched the 2008 best kept village and hamlet competition.

The competition is open to all settlements within Kinross-shire, and dates back to 1966 when the former county, now part of Perth and Kinross, had its own administration.

It is hoped that the competition will continue to foster a sense of community and pride in the places where people live and go about their daily lives.

Alistair Smith, the trust’s chairman, said, “We are always very impressed with the improvements that take place in many of the villages and hamlets each year.

“It is important to look around the back and make sure it’s not just the main streets that are being looked after, but that there is a clear sense of pride in the local environment being seen in all parts of our communities.”

He continued, “Kinross-shire is an important tourist destination and playing a part in the upkeep of our villages and hamlets benefits visitors and local people alike.”

The panel of three independent judges consists of Mrs Elspeth Skinner from Freuchie, Mrs Sue Hendry of Perth Civic Trust, and Mr Mike Brown of Falkland in Bloom. They will inspect each settlement in early August.

The awards will be presented at a ceremony in one of the winning settlements at the end of August or early September.

Further information and entry forms are available from Mrs Bridget Lindsay, Balgedie House, Easter Balgedie, by Kinross, KY13 9HQ, phone 01592 840252.