Scots Language Awards officially launched for 2025

The National

11-06-2025

The Scots Language Awards — organised by Hands Up For Trad, a group that promotes traditional Scottish music in the mainstream media — was launched for 2025 on Thursday and will take place in Cumnock Town Hall, Ayrshire, again on 13 September.
The annual ceremony aims to recognise figures and organisations that encourage use of the Scots language in wider society, and categories will include business, literature, community work and more.
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Simon Thoumire, Scots Language Award organiser and Hands Up For Trad creative director, said: "The Scots leid is gaun fae strength tae strength, and we're thrilled tae see the Scots Language Awards return tae Ayrshire, hame tae sic a rich cultural heritage.
'This event isn't jist a celebration o the wunnerfu talents in Scots music, literature, an community endeavors, but a recognition o the leid's vital role in oor Scottish identity.
'We can't wait tae bring the Scots language community thegither again, and wi' new initiatives lik the Scots Hoose school sessions, we're ensuring the next generation can share in the pride an passion for oor mither tongue. It's set tae be a nicht tae remember, an we cannae wait!'
The launch coincides with 'Gies a Scots Poem Day' 2025, an initiative created by the Scottish Poetry Library, which aims to promote Scots language poetry in all of its forms, including Doric, Shetlandic and Dundonian.
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East Ayrshire Provost, Claire Leitch, said: 'I'm awfa chuffed that the Scots Language Award will return tae East Ayrshire this year. I'm looking forward to gaun along, celebrating the talented performers and aw the folk fae across Scotland who are dedicated who are encouraging us to use oor 'mither tongue'! It's gonnae be another stoater o a nicht!
'For me, there's nuhun more important than staying true to who we aw ur, and encouraging oor communities and weans to use and celebrate the Scots language.
'Definitely get yersel a ticket quick. As Jack fae Still Game says - "He who hingeth aboot getteth heehaw!'
Hands Up For Trad are also partnering with learning resource Scots Hoose to deliver Scots language lessons in schools across the country.
A range of musicians and poets will perform at the ceremony this year, including Edinburgh Scots singer Amy Leach and local Burns purveyor Wullie Dick.
Scots Language Awards nominations will be open from July 28 until August 10, with voting for shortlisted nominees taking place from August 25 until September 7.
Further information regarding ticketing will be available on the event's website soon.