Praise for our High Street heroes
This year’s Remembrance Sunday was like no other over the 20 years I have served as the MSP for the
Ayr constituency, and I am sure like no other anyone else locally has ever experienced.
Covid- 19 and the need for social distancing meant that the numbers in attendance at each of our local war memorials was much reduced from previous years, but the commemorations held, if scaled back, were no less heartfelt and moving.
This year, many of us found our own individual ways to commemorate those who fought for our freedom, and we must hope that when Armistice Day 2021 arrives, we are again able to pay our tributes in ways we are perhaps more accustomed to.
As the convenor of the Scottish Parliament’s Cross Party Group on Towns and Town Centres, I have been a strong supporter of the ‘ Scotland Loves Local’ campaign, designed to encourage everyone to think local first and support their local town centres and high streets safely and in line with
public health guidelines.
So that’s why I was pleased to see so many local businesses and individuals recognised through the campaign’s ‘ High Street Heroes’ awards.
From Prestwick’s Daisy Chain, to Ayr’s Unity Grill, to Troon childminder Joanne Redford, who launching a support service to help the vulnerable and those left isolated by the coronavirus, all have played a big part, along with many others, in the community effort to ensure that people have been able to remain safe and well during the crisis.
And all really do deserve the title of ‘ High Street Heroes’.
The news last month that a possible sale of Prestwick Airport had fallen through was a huge disappointment, but I am pleased the Scottish Government has said that a new notice inviting expressions of interest will be published.
Times for the aviation industry are undoubtedly tough right now, but I remain completely committed to helping secure a brighter future for our local airport.
Although I am not able to hold face to face meetings at present, I can be contacted on 01292 286251 or at: john. scott. msp@ parliament. scot