An East Renfrewshire councillor is in the running to pick up a top award.

Cllr Chris Lunday, who represents Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor, has been shortlisted for the 2023 LGIU (Local Government Information Unit) Scotland and CCLA annual Cllr Awards for Resilience Champion.

The only representative from the local authority to have made the final cut, organisers said this year’s competition was extremely tight with more than 300 nominations received across five categories that celebrate the wide-ranging work of councillors.

According Jonathan Carr-West, chief executive of LGIU Scotland, Cllr Lunday’s selection makes him part of a group of local elected politicians who are “some of the most devoted” in the nation.

He said: "In the face of unprecedented domestic and global challenges over the last year, councillors nationwide have once again exhibited unwavering dedication to serving their constituents.

“As councils continue to deliver essential services like social care and housing amid a cost of living crisis, these awards are a hugely important way to champion what councillors do locally."

“Their work, all too often, goes unrecognised and we take great pride in featuring their stories in this year's shortlist,” he added.

“Congratulations to all the councillors nominated and shortlisted and I look forward to announcing the winners in November.”

The judging panel for the awards is made up of senior councillors and leading stakeholders from across the sector and these are the only national awards to celebrate and showcase the work of individual councillors.

Along with resilience champion, the other categories include community champion, leader of the year, young councillor of the year and lifetime legend.

Specifically Cllr Lunday has been recognised for campaigning on issues such as local transport and highlighting community asset transfers, as well as being a “community-driven councillor”.

He has also been praised for “not only visiting groups that contact him but approaching new groups and businesses to visit them and support their work.”

Cllr Lunday said: "I am delighted to have been shortlisted for this award.

“It is my favourite part of the job getting out and meeting with the community.

“I am so pleased that we have so many wonderful individuals, organisations and businesses working hard to improve lives here.

“I am extremely grateful for all the support I have been given since being elected and look forward to continue working for the people of Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor over the years to come."

This year’s awards have been made possible thanks to the generous support of founding partners, investment management firm CCLA.

The winners in Scotland will be announced at the City Chambers in Edinburgh at 7pm on November 21.