THIS year's Musselburgh Citizen of the Year award was presented to Heather Paul, who has introduced countless children to the world of horticulture over the years.

A keen member of Musselburgh Horticultural Society, she was also a Brown Owl with Girlguiding for more than 30 years and has undertaken fundraising to help multiple sclerosis sufferers.

Heather, 67, who has lived her entire life in the Honest Toun, was also involved in setting up Musselburgh Museum.

A former pupil of Burgh Primary School and Musselburgh Grammar School, she was the education officer at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh for many years.

Now she continues to promote gardening amongst children at Pinkie St Peter's Primary School in Musselburgh, where she volunteers every Tuesday come rain or shine.

A delighted Heather received the award, specially made for her by Musselburgh sculptor and artist Ronnie Elliot, from Scott Roberston at a ceremony at The Brunton last night (Thursday).

Mr Robertson is a former recipient of the Musselburgh Citizen of the Year Award for his community work, particularly with Musselburgh Windsor Football Club.

The accolade is awarded annually by Musselburgh and Inveresk Community Council, which organised the presentation including drinks and a buffet.

Chairwoman Irene Tait said: "The Citizen of the Year is given to someone locally to gives up their free time to continuously help others, whether it's by being a good neighbour or being part of an organisation."

Catherine McArthur, community council treasurer, read out the citation, saying: "Heather is a very worthy winner of this prestigious award."

Heather was accompanied at the ceremony by relatives and friends, including her 91-year-old dad Tom Paul.

She commented: "It is very, very special when it's your home community. It is a great honour - I'm thrilled to bits with this."

She also shared several humorous stories relating to her horticultural work with local schoolchildren with the audience which included local East Lothian councillors.

Sarah Ogden, headteacher at Pinkie St Peter's Primary School, said: "Heather is superb and volunteers every Tuesday, come rain or shine. The children love working outside with her and she's very inspiring with all ages and all stages of children."