The ‘Creative Places Awards’ has been launched by Creative Scotland. It is a scheme that encourages cultural organisations, community groups and/or local authorities to nominate their village, town or other community to receive an award in recognition of its achievements in using its creative assets to promote the identity of the place.  Each year, three winners will be announced at a ceremony and receive an award of £ 150,000, £100,000 or £50,000, depending on category. Apparently areas within Scotland’s main cities are not eligible.  All final applications must be endorsed by the local authority Chief Executive.  The deadline for applications to the 2012 Awards is 28 October 2011.