I urge people to back our businesses
We have recently enjoyed the easing of the lockdown restrictions which have been necessary to bring the Covid-19 pandemic under control, enabling all of us to experience the return of some normality in our lives.
It was great to see so many people meet up and reconnecting with family and friends and local businesses opening again.
I would absolutely encourage people to support local businesses wherever possible.
However, it gives me no pleasure to remind everyone that the virus has not gone away.
It is therefore important that we all continue to take sensible precautions to avoid the spread of infection including avoiding crowded places and ensuring that we maintain good hygiene practices.
I was delighted to table an Early Day Motion in Parliament recently recognising and highlighting the work and commitment of the Ballantrae Trust, the Ballantrae Community Council, and the many volunteers from Ballantrae and surrounding area who
as a community, have purchased the Kings Arms, the last remaining pub in the village, for use as a community Hub and Pub.
This is an absolutely fantastic example of how local people can work together to secure facilities for the benefit of the whole community.
As an innovative means of raising funds and to ensure the sustainability of the project, there is an opportunity for the public to invest in shares in the Kings Arms Community Benefit Society.
For further information please visit www.kingsarmsballantrae.co.uk.
As a supporter of our veterans, I am pleased to note that the Open University are now accepting applications for their Disabled Veterans Scholarship Fund.
I would encourage any disabled veterans to consider applying - free university education and full disability support and career services are provided.
I would be grateful if this information could be shared with any disabled veterans that you may know. Further information may be found at the OU Website www. open.ac.uk/courses/fees-andfunding/ disabled-veterans-scholarship-fund