Politicians united in seat of power
Politicians set aside their party differences to take on some of Ayrshire’s top powerchair footballers.
Conservative MSPs Brian Whittle and John Scott teamed up with Labour MSP Colin Smyth to play against the South Ayrshire Tigers powerchair football club.
But the politicians were unable to match the Tigers, coming out on the losing end of a 5- 1 thrashing.
Former Olympic athlete Mr Whittle said: “I’m delighted John and Colin were able to join me for a game of powerchair football.
“Despite the 5- 1 trouncing we received, it was probably the most fun I’ve had as a politician.
“Speaking to the players, it doesn’t take long to see how big a difference it’s made to their lives.”
The club were formed last year as a South Ayrshire sports development initative and playing in the Scottish Powerchair Football League.
The Tigers, who train at Whitletts Activity Centre, have nine full- time players, two qualified coaches and two volunteers.
Colin Duthie, chairman of South Ayrshire Access to Sport, said: “It was fantastic to see such support and commitment from the three MSPs.
“Not only did they show great skill playing against the Tigers, they proved that powerchair football can be played on a level playing field, regardless of physical ability.”
Ayr MSP John Scott said: “It was great to take part in an actual game of powerchair football. We were soundly beaten by our opponents, who showed much greater skill and understanding of the powerchairs and the game itself.”
South of Scotland MSP Colin Smyth added: “It was great to meet up with the players and coaches.
“They really were an inspiration and taught us a lesson or two when it came to how to play powerchair football.”