Alternative Take

Published on Thursday 8 January 2009 20:59

WILLIE COFFEY MSP, on the brighter side of Kilmarnock

HOW dare Ross Lydall talk about Kilmarnock in such a manner, based on nothing more than a flying visit (Debate & Opinion, 7 January)?

Did he not know Kilmarnock has a fantastic history with its close association with Burns, Bruce and Wallace and the wars of independence? It has a great railway tradition that many are rightly proud of and still work in. Local companies, despite the recession, continue to develop their businesses in engineering, control systems, printing and, yes, even bagpipe manufacture.

Regeneration is under way, development sites are being cleared, owners of derelict buildings are being pursued and lighting schemes are in place (the viaduct being an obvious one he missed). The Kay Park is receiving a huge investment which I'm sure will make Kilmarnock people proud of it once again. Facts are chiels that winna ding, Mr Lydall.

Yes, we do bottle the world's top-selling whisky – Johnnie Walker Red Label. And our local football team has the best facilities on site of any in Scotland. Kilmarnock FC are in their 16th consecutive season in the SPL, in recent years winning the Scottish Cup, and making four appearances in European competition and two League Cup Finals.

Not bad for "the worst of Scotland in miniature".

If Mr Lydall wishes a return to Kilmarnock's streets and neuks, I would be happy to guide him.