“Over the year I have been privileged to meet excellent organisations who are supporting families and individuals across West Lothian including Andy’s Mans Club supporting men’s mental health and Enable Scotland working to improve the lives of people with disabilities. I have also met businesses across the county who are providing goods, services and importantly jobs for local people. In my role as a Constituency MSP, I am constantly reminded of the good in society and the talent and community spirit in West Lothian.
“One of the highlights of the year was the reopening of the Armadale Shed, an excellent example of the community coming together to support the Shed in the aftermath of the fire. I was pleased to attend and speak at the official reopening and it is wonderful to see the Shed open again to members and continuing to go from strength to strength.
“Another great day in the Constituency, was the opening of the Winchburgh Marina. I was pleased to be aboard one of the first boats to come under the new Marina Bridge and into the Marina. It was also great to see so many local school pupils watch the flotilla of boats come down the Union Canal and into the Marina at Winchburgh.
“Christmas can be a joyous time, but is can also be a difficult time of year, families may go without and individuals grieve loved ones too and our support and thoughts go out to them and to the charities and voluntary organisations who provide support to them. Our emergency services continue to work over the Festive period, and it is one of their busiest times and they deserve our thanks and appreciation all year round. Internationally war and conflict continue, and my thoughts especially are with the people of Gaza and Ukraine.
“As we look forward to 2025, we should do so with hope and optimism and wish for peace across the world.
“Merry Christmas to all of my Constituents and best wishes for a healthy and prosperous New Year.”
Fiona Hyslop MSP
Member of the Scottish Parliament for Linlithgow Constituency