Football broadcaster, Alex O’ Henley, has been named the Gaelic ambassador of the year.
The award was announced at the Royal National Mòd taking place in Western Isles.
The South Uist man was the first Gaelic officer employed by the new Scottish Parliament between 2000 and 2002.
Since 2004 he has been UEFA’s Scottish football correspondent and has reported on European championships and the Champion’s League.
He regularly contributes to BBC Rèidio nan Gàidheal on Scottish and European football, as well as commentating on BBC ALBA’s coverage of the SPFL.
He was also part of the team which won two consecutive Royal Television Society Scotland awards for documentaries on Jim Baxter and Jock Stein on BBC Alba.
Mr O’Henley said: “I consider this a great honour and one that I did not expect.
It is always a pleasure to receive an award from your colleagues in the work-
"That means a lot to me, especially after a year that has been very challenging, and I would like to thank An Comunn Gàidhealach and the Scottish Government for considering me worthy of this award.”
John Morrison, chief executive of An Comunn Gàidhealach, which organises the Mòd, said: "We’re delighted that Alex O’Henley has been awarded the prestigious Gaelic Ambassador of the year by the Scottish Government.
"His contribution to the Gaelic language through his work with the Scottish Parliament, UEFA and the BBC for so many years has made him a true role model and influence to Scottish Gaels of all ages. His continuing work in football ensures that thousands of people every week hear Gaelic, and shows Alex’s passion for maintaining the language in Scotland."
Gaelic Ambassador announced as Royal National Mod gets underway
17 October 2016
