THE SCOTTISH Education Awards has named Trinity Primary School's janitor Graeme Reid as the Educational Supporter of the Year.

Now retired, Graeme was commended for his years of committment and dedication to the school and wider community - and picked up the award at a glittering ceremony in Glasgow.

Councillor Sandy Aitchison, Executive Member for Education at Scottish Borders Council, said: “This is such a significant achievement and many congratulations to Graeme on having won through against what I understand was very stiff competition.

"His outstanding commitment clearly impressed the judges and he should be extremely proud of this national recognition of his hard work and dedication.

"His good humour, practical know-how and deep care and concern for every child in the school were key factors in his nomination, along with his willingness to go above and beyond for the school he loves so much.

"From hospital visits to encourage sick children; the laughs and jokes in the playground and his patching up of skint knees and bumped heads; right through to his giving of his own time for innumerable school shows and taking part in fundraising; Graeme has been the rock on which a significant part of the school’s success was built.

"His ability to relate equally well to everyone he met through his work, from  cleaners, parents and pupils, to  tradesmen, police and managers, treating all with respect and accommodating their many requests, was remarkable.

"Now Graeme has retired, the school report that it is just not quite the same place without his presence.”