Midlothian councillors gave a Great British Sewing Bee finalist a round of applause as they returned from their summer recess this week.
In the first full council meeting since local resident Emma Morwood made it to the final of the popular BBC One show, Midlothian Provost Debbi McCall praised the Roslin-based soprano for her success and her local community for its support.
Speaking at the start of the meeting Councillor McCall said Emma had been an ‘absolute star’ throughout the competition.
She said: “What was really lovely was the level of support she got from the community in Roslin.
“The bowling club screened the show and everyone got together and watched the show with Emma and, I think on at least one occasion, one of the other sewing bees and it was just really lovely to see.
“So Emma from us many congratulations on your achievement on getting to the final. We are very proud of you and I think that deserves a round of applause.”
Elected members responded with clapping before moving on to other business.
Opera singer Emma lives in Roslin with her family and described her experience of taking part in the Sewing Bee as ‘joyous’. She shared her experiences on her own website and also thanked her local bowling club for her support.
Originally from Northern Ireland the soprano announced her appearance in the 12th series of the show on the local community Facebook page at the end of July receiving huge support from fellow residents.
Emma, who took up her childhood hobby of sewing again during Covid, made the final three with fellow finalists Beth Eames and eventual winner Anna from York.
The show, which is overseen by judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young has been running since 2013 and was presented this year by comedian and actress Sophie Willan.
By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter
