I back Save Our Cash campaign
In July, Troon lost one of its historic landmarks when the main train station building was destroyed by fire.
It was awful to see the smoke rise across the town and the pictures of the blaze captured by those in the vicinity.
Thankfully, no-one was injured but its effects were devastating, not least for the owners of the onsite hairdresser and kiosk who have both lost their businesses.
Hard work by the emergency services and Network Rail engineers over the ensuing days enabled both the rail line and the platforms to re-open within a fortnight, minimising disruption for commuters.
I was pleased to meet with Network Rail to hear about their plans but, with so little remaining of such a striking building, it is not yet clear the extent to which it can be restored to its original style.
With Covid restrictions lessening, I have been taking the opportunity to get back out and about in the constituency.
I was delighted to meet postmasters Stephen and Cherlene at Prestwick Post Office to hear more about the “Save Our Cash”campaign.
Everyone should be able to access cash, without additional charges, in their community and this campaign calls on the UK Government to protect vital cash services following the loss of local bank branches and the threat to so many Post Offices.
On a glorious sunny day, I was delighted to spend some time with the team at The River Garden at Auchincruive.
I presented them with a copy of the Early Day Motion I lodged at Westminster last year, after they won the Scottish EDGE social enterprise competition for their fantastic work empowering people recovering from drug and alcohol addiction.
The support they provide is a combination of education, enterprise and rehabilitation and, since my last visit, they have opened the Bothy Café where the residents can put newly learned skills, as well as produce they have grown onsite, to good use.
It is a terrific project and a lovely spot to have a coffee or lunch after a good walk along the river.