CANDY Philip, the founder of Keeping Duns Blooming Marvellous, was thanked for her work by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at a reception of Community Champions last week.

Taking place at Number 10 Downing Street, the reception celebrated local heroes from across the United Kingdom.

Ms Philip was nominated for the honour by Scottish Borders MP, John Lamont in recognition for all that she has done to transform her hometown of Duns.

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The award-winning Keeping Duns Blooming Marvellous project which sets up and maintains community planting schemes around Duns has lifted the feel of the town and brought locals of all ages together.

Ms Philip said: “I am over the moon to have been nominated as a Community Champion.

“I feel very honoured to have received an invite to Downing Street to meet the Prime Minister.

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“On behalf of all the Duns Blooming Marvellous volunteers, I am delighted to be recognised as a Community Champion.”

Scottish Borders MP, John Lamont, said: “It was an honour to invite Candy to Downing Street to receive the personal thanks and recognition of the Prime Minister for her work with the Keeping Duns Blooming Marvellous project.

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“Candy’s enthusiasm and hard work has really lifted the feel of the town and brought local people together.

“Thank you to Candy and all of the volunteers involved, you have made a fantastic contribution to the Duns community.”