An Empty Homes Officer from Forth Valley has received an award at the UK-wide national Empty Homes Network Conference 2016.

Allyson Allison, who works as an Empty Homes Officer for both Falkirk and Stirling Councils, was named joint winner of the Empty Homes Practitioner of the Year Award 2016.

Ms Allison works for the two local authorities as part of the Forth Valley Empty Homes Project.

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So far, more than 300 properties have been brought back into use since April 2013.

Speaking on her award, Ms Allison said: "I'm thrilled and surprised to win this award which is a fitting tribute to the achievements of the project and everyone who works on it."

Kristen Hubert, Scottish Empty Homes Partnership National Manager, added: "This award is fantastic recognition for all of Allyson's hard work. There was strong competition for this award so this is a real achievement and very exciting to have a Scottish winner.

"Allyson has helped bring hundreds of empty homes back into use over the years and brings heaps of enthusiasm to the Scottish Empty Homes Officer Network. I know the whole network will be congratulating her on this win."

(LM)