NOMINATIONS have opened for the Robert Burns Humanitarian Award, one of the most globally respected humanitarian accolades.
The award is bestowed annually on a group or individual who has shown selflessness and dedication in a bid to save, enrich or improve the lives of others through the protection and promotion of human rights and work to deliver social reform.
Named in honour of Scotland's national bard, the award is made in recognition of the efforts of people who have helped change others' lives for the better.
Winners receive the equivalent of 1759 guineas (approximately £1,800), a sum which signifies the year of the Bard's birth and the coinage then in circulation as well as a specially commissioned award handcrafted in Scotland.
South Ayrshire Councillor Bill McIntosh, Chair of the Robert Burns Humanitarian Award 2015 judging panel, said: "We're looking for a person, or a group of people, who follow in Rabbie's footsteps and devote themselves to others and push the boundaries for social change.
"Humanitarians come in all shapes and sizes, from all corners of the earth, and find themselves dealing with many different and difficult situations."
"But they all have something in common - the desire, dedication and will to make a difference."
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