Let’s put winter dark behind us

I love springtime.

The weather should be turning for the better, the days are getting longer and brighter and Parliament is in recess so I get to work in the constituency, helping the people who put me where I am.

Although I don’t have any surgeries during recess, meetings in the office more than make up for that.

The weeks have been chock full with visits and constituent issues and I am certainly not complaining.

That is what I am here to do; help the people of Airdrie and Shotts.

As the weather brightens up flowers are beginning to bloom, buds are on the trees and people start to think about getting out and about to enjoy what North Lanarkshire and Scotland as a whole have to offer.

Going for a walk around the fishing loch at Hillend or the North Calder Heritage Trail, venturing up the Campsies or just playing in the local park are activities that are accessible for most people.

I am sometimes, justifiably, critical of the leadership of North Lanarkshire Council but I have to praise their staff for the way they help to look after some of our country parks and walks.

There is always room for improvement but Palacerigg Country Park is a great day out for families, as are Summerlee and Drumpellier.

All the parks are dog-friendly so you don’t have to leave Rover at home.

As the weather improves I would like to see some more investment in our local playparks.

Get some upgraded and have all of them better protected from vandals so that local kids can continue to enjoy them safely.

Getting out locally with the family is also a good way to help tackle loneliness, which for many older people will have been a huge challenge throughout the darker months.

Please encourage your older relatives to get out with you if you can.

Too many elderly people are unable to get about on their own so a wee day out with family could make all the difference to them.

The bowling season is just beginning so why not take a trip to your local green and get involved?

Local bowling clubs are incredibly welcoming and many are in need of new players.

Not only is it sociable, there is the fitness element to the sport. You can walk three miles during a single game, meaning you can have a reasonably gentle exercise routine you can experience almost every day.

The costs range per club but many will do new member offers and let you use a set of club bowls to see how you get on before buying your own.

Spring is all about regrowth and rejuvenation. So after the dark winter months let’s get a spring back in our step, use what is on our doorstep and help keep the local facilities well used for the good of ourselves and the whole community.

Palacerigg Country Park is a great day out for families, as are Summerlee and Drumpellier

Family fun Drumpellier