Eco-volunteers praised at Holyrood for their efforts

A GROUP of eco-volunteers from Symington have been recognised in a motion put before the Scottish Parliament.

Elena Whitham, MSP for Carrick, Cumnock, and Doon Valley, put forward the commendation in celebration of their efforts to encourage pollinators in the area.

Pollinator Friendly Symington was started during the pandemic when residents noticed road verges, which were not getting cut regularly, started playing host to wildflowers.

The group took over management of the verges and sowed more wildflowers which are essential for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Symington is part of the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Nectar Network

which connects pollinator-friendly habitats across the Ayrshire Coast.

The work of Pollinator Friendly Symington has been recognised by cross-party MSPs following the motion by Elena Whitham which has praised the group for its achievements.

Ms Whitham visited volunteers to present them with a copy of the motion and find out more about their work.

She has also issued a call to her constituents to play their role in supporting pollinators.

She said: “The volunteers show that a small committed group of residents can make a big difference to the local community and the wider area.

“I am delighted the motion I submitted to the Scottish Parliament to celebrate their success has received cross-party support.

“It was my pleasure to speak with the volunteers to present them with a copy and find out more about their projects.

“I would urge all of my constituents to find out more about Pollinator Friendly Symington and consider how they could replicate some of their work. Planting some wildflower seeds in your garden would play an important part in supporting our pollinator friends.”

David Houfe, from Pollinator Friendly Symington, added: “We are delighted that our work has been recognised by the Scottish Parliament and very much appreciate Elena’s support to our community project.

“Our hope is that such recognition will encourage other communities to pursue similar action.”