SCOTTISH Labour leader Anas Sarwar has paid a visit to Dumfries as part of his staycation to the region.
Mr Sarwar, who has led his party since February, took time out of his summer break on Monday to call in on various organisations, projects and initiatives in the town with local MSP, Colin Smyth.
They met with representatives from the Stove Network and Midsteeple Quarter project to discuss community efforts being made to regenerate the town centre.
The pair were also joined by Labour colleague and Dumfries and Galloway Council leader, Elaine Murray, to meet with staff and volunteers at the Usual Place, a non-for-profit cafe which supports young people with additional needs.
Afterwards, Mr Sarwar’s visit was rounded-off with a trip to Dumfriesshire Foodbank on Friars Vennel.
Furthermore, whilst holidaying in Dumfries and Galloway during the the Scottish Parliament’s recess, the party leader has met with groups campaigning for the upgrade of the A75 and A77, as well as P&O and Stena Line ferry firms and local farmers.
Anas Sarwar said: “I’m delighted to kick off my family staycation in Dumfries and Galloway. It really is beautiful and the best of our country. The kids have had a fantastic time enjoying beaches such as Rockcliffe and Sandyhills, as well as visiting Moat Brae and so many more of the fantastic attractions the region has to offer.
“But I was also keen to take some time out to meet with many of the local groups in the area and to listen to the challenges the region faces. Too often the south west can be forgotten but in building an alternative for Scotland, I’m determined that includes everyone, in every part of our country.”
South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth added: “It was great to have Anas in Dumfries and Galloway and show him some of the fantastic work which is being done right across the region.
“The Midsteeple Project, the Usual Place and the foodbank are just a handful of fantastic initiatives which operate in our area and while I am well aware of the amazing work they do, day in, day out, it was brilliant to be able to introduce them to Anas.”
