OFTEN OVERLOOKED AS Moray sits on the ‘edge’ of the Highland crofting communities, it does nevertheless contain crofts – and people working hard to carve a living from them.

Now Moray’s Crofters are being encouraged to take on additional responsibility, by putting their name forward for the forthcoming election to the Crofting Commission.

The regulator for the crofting system in Scotland, commissioners are responsible for promoting the interests of crofting and advising Scottish ministers.

The elections are being administered by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, which is working with the Scottish Government and the Crofting Commission to encourage a diverse range of candidates and a high voter turnout from all areas covered by the crofting board – which includes part of Moray.

Mairi Sine MacDonald, of the Comhairle nan Eilean Siar elections team, said: “Crofting makes a vital contribution to the economy, environment and communities in Scotland’s rural areas.
“This is an important time to ensure a strong and vibrant future for crofters which is why it is vital to have a Crofting Commission made up of people who represent and reflect the interests and diversity of Scotland’s crofting community.”

Moray is part of the East Highlands constituency for the election, which will be held by postal ballot.

Nomination forms and other documents relating to the election can be downloaded from www.moray.gov.uk/elections or by e-mail from elections.enquiries@moray.gov.uk or by calling 01343 563334.
Completed nomination forms must be submitted by Thursday, January 26.