New RNLI museum is worth a visit
Each year I have the honour of attending and laying wreaths at Remembrance Sunday services and it was my privilege to attend this year’s services at Prestwick and Troon.
These annual services remember the brutal reality of war and the debt of gratitude we owe to members of our armed forces who have served their country so bravely around the world.
Another group of people deserving of our gratitude are those local volunteers who crew lifeboats and help keep people on the water safe.
With a history going as far back as 1871, when a lifeboat house was first constructed at a cost of £ 250, Troon has a proud history of acting as a base for the RNLI and I know just how valued that association is amongst local people.
So it was a real pleasure to be present for the recent opening of the RNLI Troon Lifeboat History Room.
Having been researched by former coxswain Ian Johnson, this new room is a fascinating insight into a vital piece of Troon’s heritage.
This time last year I was one of the panel members for Question Time @ Prestwick Academy, an event as a part of Parliament Week which sees pupils from all local secondary schools quiz politicians from all the main political parties.
It was back to Prestwick Academy for the same event again this year, but with the novelty for me of being part of the audience rather than answering the questions.
As ever, the senior pupils taking part were a credit to their schools, asking pertinent and searching questions of the politicians on the panel and it’s clear this is a now a well- established and keenly anticipated event locally.
Another well- established and much anticipated annual event is Troon Wintertainment, which sees a wide range of family- friendly events staged in the town centre.
This year was no exception, with a 1921 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost driving the Gala Queen, Gala Princes and Citizen of the Year at the head of the parade, a fairground in the Academy Street car park, Christmas Fayre in the Town Hall and host of other attractions.
It was a pleasure to meet up with members of the organising committee who do such a superb job in putting together the annual event.
I hold weekly advice surgeries in my office at 17 Wellington Square, Ayr KA7 1EZ and appointments can be made by telephoning 01292 286251. I can also be contacted at john. scott. msp@ parliament. scot. uk