The “V&A bounce” has helped a Fife village to win a Scotland’s Rising Star High Street award.
Newport-on-Tay was recognised after the hard work of local groups and businesses helped bring the community together.
One community leader said the buzz around the opening of the V&A Dundee museum had spread its ripples across the water.
The winners in the Visa-sponsored Great British High Street Awards 2018 were announced at a ceremony in London on Thursday.
Becky Myles of Newport on Tay Traders Association said everyone was “absolutely thrilled” by the accolade.
“This award is testament to the hard work and dedication of our local businesses and community – we’re so proud of everyone involved,” she said.
Projects which have helped the village to thrive include Christmas lights, mid-summer festivals and strong partnerships between community groups.
Andy Gilles, who chairs Newport, Wormit and Forgan Community Council, said the village had also benefited from the “V&A bounce”.
He said: “You can see the V&A every time you look across from Newport. Dundee is obviously on the up, and the V&A is a big part of that.
“I think we’re getting a ripple effect from the V&A.”
Andy paid tribute to the hard work of Becky and also Betty Martin from the Rio Community Centre.
He added: “I’m delighted about the rising star award.
“There’s a bit of a buzz on the village now.”
Exciting developments include the renovation of the pier buildings and the success of the Newport restaurant, which was recently named Restaurant of the Year Scotland and boasts Masterchef winner Jamie Scott as its chef.
The High Street also includes the award-winning Tatha Gallery, along with a number of independent shops.
High Streets Minister Jake Berry MP said: “Congratulations to Newport-on-Tay on being crowned the Scottish Rising Star High Street in this year’s Great British High Street Awards.
“Across the whole UK, there’s a determination from local communities to keep their high street strong and vibrant and these awards reflect that.”
Awards judge Hemlata Narasimhan, head of merchant services at Visa Europe, added: “Newport-on-Tay is a fantastic example of a high street that has made huge strides in transforming itself and significantly improving the environment for locals and visitors alike.
“Newport-on-Tay is a shining example of how high streets can help drive footfall by the local community coming together to make it a better place for all.”
