South of Scotland shines at Parliament
CELEBRITIES, business leaders and politicians came together to celebrate the successes of South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) as it marked its fifth anniversary.
Parliament played host to the reception celebrating the region’s economic and community development agency which has helped create and safeguard over 10,000 jobs in the region since being launched.
Russel Griggs, Chair of SOSE, said:“When we launched in April 2020, we made a promise to the people of the South of Scotland that we would be bold, different, ambitious and would listen.
“We are proud of the businesses and communities we have in our region, and the support we have provided – from COVID-19 support to creation and safeguarding of jobs to development of entrepreneurship and innovation.
“We were delighted to celebrate our region’s achievements at the Scottish Parliament reception. Moving forward, we will ensure we continue to be adaptive, forward thinking, innovative and responsive to the needs of our fantastic region.”
Among the businesses spotlighted at the event was the Galloway Distillery, owned by Outlander star Sam Heughan, who spoke at the event, reflecting on growing up in Galloway and now being part of the region’s business community with the Distillery, which is based in Newton Stewart, he said: “There was never any question for me where I would open a distillery – no matter how far I go, Scotland and Galloway, will always be my home.
“So it really is incredible to return to a place abundant with ambition, drive and opportunity, giving us the chance to add to what is already there.
“To shine a light, not only on ourselves but all the other businesses in the South of Scotland.”
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MUSIC . . . several talented musicians performed throughout the reception
All images © Stewart Attwood Photography 2025.[/caption]
The reception included a number of performances by talented musicians, including The Burns’ Trio, Devin Casson from the Borders and Dumfries and Galloway performer Ra.
The event discussed SOSE’s vision for the future of the South, with Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, adding: “The establishment of South of Scotland Enterprise in 2020 was in recognition that there was a unique opportunity in the south to do things differently.
“Since then SOSE has been instrumental in helping grow and develop new and innovative opportunities for economic growth.
“It has been at the forefront of some truly exciting developments and the figures speak for themselves: over 10,000 jobs created or safeguarded; funding of over £50m to more than 800 organisations; and a return on investment of £5 for every £1 spent.
“By continuing to capitalise on its many assets – from its geography, its heritage, its natural environment and above all its people – I have no doubt the region, its businesses and communities will continue to go from strength to strength, supported by South of Scotland Enterprise.”
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All images © Stewart Attwood Photography 2025.[/caption]
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