Community hero joins Dumbarton MSP for Holyrood 25th anniversary celebrations

Alison Gildea joined Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie, who has represented the area since the inception of the Scottish Parliament, to mark the institution’s landmark.

A Helensburgh community champion has headed to Holyrood as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations.

Alison Gildea joined Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie, who has represented the area since the inception of the Scottish Parliament, to mark the institution’s landmark.

Residents were offered the opportunity to nominate a local hero to join in celebrations to mark the 25th anniversary of the Scottish Parliament recently.

King Charles attended the ceremonial event to mark the historic occasion, 25 years after the official opening of the Holyrood parliament was carried out by his late mother, Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, on July 1 1999.

All 129 MSPs were given the chance to take a guest along, with Dumbarton MSP Jackie opening it up to nominations of community stalwarts.

Her pick from the shortlist was Helensburgh woman Alison, who founded charity Grey Matters, in 2012.

The charity aims to tackle loneliness and isolation in the over 60s, providing events such as day trips and coach holidays, alongside other activities to help older people lead full lives.

Grey Matters has also laid on tech clinics to turn Helensburgh and Lomond’s older residents into silver surfers and keep them in touch with the digital age.

Alison also supported older residents during lockdown, by teaming up with ‘phone buddy’ volunteers to ensure older people were not left isolated, as well as securing funding to issue care packs, as well as helping with shopping and collecting prescriptions.

It has now resulted in the creation of an Active Ageing Centre, where daily sessions include crafts and Tai Chi.

The anniversary was marked by celebrations in Holyrood’s Debating Chamber, marking the achievements of parliament since its inception, alongside a celebration of national music and culture - including performances from young people from across the country.

The event was followed by a lunch reception, hosted by Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone.

Labour MSP, Jackie said: “I was absolutely delighted to be accompanied to celebrations to mark the 25th anniversary of the Scottish Parliament by Alison Gildea and her son, Fraser.

“Alison has been actively involved in charity and in improving the wellbeing of the area’s older population for many years and it was wonderful to have her company on such a significant occasion.

“I have had the honour of representing the people of Dumbarton, the Vale, Helensburgh and Lomond in the Scottish Parliament for 25 years and this was an opportunity to pay tribute to those who have dedicated their efforts to support our local community during that time.”

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