AN AYR support worker has been shortlisted as one of the UK’s best helpline employees after helping thousands of Epilepsy sufferers.

Stuart Macgee from Doonfoot, has been chosen as a finalist in the Helplines Partnership Awards for his work with Epilepsy Scotland’s freephone Helpline service.

His work with Epilepsy Scotland has been recognised as he assisted others in helping over 1500 people who contacted the charity looking for support and advice.

Stuart is the only employee from a Scottish based charity who has been nominated for the award.

The Advertiser previously told how he helped set up Epilepsy Scotland’s new weekly Ayrshire Information Service at Hansel Village which he hoped would help local sufferers to deal with the hidden devastation the condition can cause. .

On receiving his nomination, Stuart said: “It is a great honour to be shortlisted at the Helplines Partnership Awards.I have appreciated the training I have received from the Helplines Partnership because it has helped me gain confidence when dealing with service users on telephone and all social media platforms.

“Working in the Helpline can be a challenging job, but it is always really enjoyable.”

Epilepsy Scotland’s Head of Fundraising & Communications, Robyn Friel said: “I am delighted that Stuart has been shortlisted for the Helpline Employee of the Year Award. He has a detailed knowledge about epilepsy, is very helpful, patient and understanding and has helped thousands of people living with epilepsy. It is well-deserved recognition and we wish him the best of luck on the day.”

The awards takes place on Wednesday, November 6 in Birmingham.