Published at 21:35, Wednesday, 25 July 2012

VOTING has been ongoing over the last four weeks in the National Lottery Good Causes Awards and on Monday votes were in and were counted and a chance to appear on an exclusive awards programme on national BBC TV beckoned for the Annandale & Eskdale Sports Academy.

Required to be in the top three of the public voting contest to proceed to the final we, unfortunately, came fourth – missing out on third place and qualification by only six votes.

Yes, so agonisingly close and a handful of votes away in what would have been due recognition of the work and support from all the clubs, coaches, volunteers, governing bodies of sport and sponsors who make our Sports Academy what it is.

We were up against programmes from cities, including Birmingham, London and Belfast, so fourth place is a very credible position for such a small rural community.

What we have learned during the voting process is the level of support and appreciation of the programmes and activities we deliver through the Annandale & Eskdale Sports Academy in our area.

Yes, we are disappointed to miss out on the finals and in such close circumstances. However, it will only drive us on to deliver bigger and better programmes to our children in Annandale & Eskdale and all your votes, each and every one of them, was so very much appreciated. Thank you all who voted.

Calum Graham

Sports Development Officer

Dumfries & Galloway Council

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