Perthshire North MSP, Mr John Swinney, has met with Heartland FM staff to congratulate them on their recent success at the UK-wide Community Radio Awards.

Heartland FM won four awards, taking home bronze for their Scottish Parliament election coverage, silver for “Best Female Presenter” and gold for “Newcomer of the Year”. Additionally, the station won silver in the “Station of the Year" category.

Mr Swinney met with Alistair Smith, Heartland FM’s station manager, and journalist Ashleigh Keenan-Bryce, who won gold in the “Newcomer of the Year” award. He also formally presented Ashleigh with her award from the ceremony.

Commenting, Mr Swinney said:

“I am delighted that the exemplary work of Heartland FM has been recognised at the Community Radio Awards.

“Heartland have gone up against the best stations the length and breadth of the UK and emerged with an astonishing haul of awards. It is a credit to the entire team at Heartland, and speaks to the quality of their output

“I am particularly pleased for Ashleigh, and it was a pleasure to present her with her award. Ashleigh has bolstered what was already an impressive team, and helps to ensure that Heartland continue to provide a hugely important service to those across Highland Perthshire.

“I will continue to support Heartland FM in the years ahead, and I am sure that they will build on this impressive success.”