PEOPLE in Inverclyde are being urged to get behind a Gourock street's bid for glory in a major nationwide competition.

Kempock Street is one of seven Scottish high streets that have been shortlisted for a 'rising star' award.

The contest is being run by the Great British High Street Awards, who sent judges to the town this week on a fact-finding mission where they met traders and local politicians.

The category Kempock Street is shortlisted for recognises ‘up and coming local communities which are on their way to transforming for the future’.

Kempock Street is up against Scottish rivals from Aberfoyle, Falkirk, Lanark, Cowdenbeath, Castle Douglas and Kelso among a total of 28 high streets across the UK.

Councillor Jim Clocherty, deputy leader of the local authority, believes our local contender has a compelling case.

He said: "It is very exciting that Kempock Street has been shortlisted and I would urge everyone who is available to show their support by voting online.

“Gourock has recently benefited from a £5.2 million investment programme and sits on a stunning location of the Clyde.

"I’m confident that Kempock Street is a strong contender for the rising star award.”

The Great British High Street Awards are run by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government in partnership with sponsors Visa.

The awards recognise and celebrate the communities that are working to revive local high streets.

The aim is to encourage merchants and communities to get behind their local high streets.

Judges met traders from right along the busy street during this week's visit and were impressed by the range of outlets on offer, including boutique shops, pop-ups, quality restaurants, bars, cafes, a florist's, interiors shop and art gallery.

Online voting for the award is now open and you can cast a ballot for Kempock Street by logging on to www.thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk/high-street-of-the-year-awards/rising-star-award-finalists before the ballot closes on October 7.