A WOMAN from Ayr has been named a ‘local hero’ by a South Ayrshire MSP.

SNP politician Siobhan Brown nominated Kirstin Kerr as someone who has made a positive difference to the lives of others in the community.

Earlier this year all 129 MSPs were invited to nominate a constituent who makes a positive difference to the lives of others – often with little recognition - as their ‘local hero’.

Ms Brown, Ayr MSP, said: “I have chosen to nominate Kirstin as my local hero for the brilliant work she has done supporting the Ukrainian community in South Ayrshire.

"The Ukrainian Community Group (UCG) South Ayrshire was formed and constituted in May 2023 with the aim to open a Ukrainian Community Centre to support the 350 Ukrainian refugees who have fled war and resettled in South Ayrshire.

“My nominee is the treasurer of the group and has been influential in securing funding through various fund-raising initiatives which enabled them to secure a lease in November 2023 and open the centre early December 2023.

“As the Scottish Parliament marks its 25th anniversary, it’s important that we recognise the work that has been going on in our communities and it is important our local heroes get the recognition they deserve.”

All nominees across the constituencies were able to attend a special ceremonial event to mark the 25th anniversary of The Scottish Parliament on Saturday, September 28.

The King and Queen were also present at the event to celebrate the milestone and meet with the local heroes.

The event marked 25 years since the Scottish Parliament was reconvened and included special performances from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Sistema Scotland, Còisir Alba, and Calum McIlroy, showcasing Scottish music and culture.