Visit: Ayrshire Parkinson's Group

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I was honoured to attend the Ayrshire Parkinson's Group meeting in Irvine. I was invited along by my constituent, Isaac Alvarez, who is affected by Parkinson’s himself and also fundraises on its behalf.

He and his son recently trekked 800km on the Camino Santiago, raising an impressive £1,335 for Parkinson’s Research & Ayrshire Young Parkinson’s Group. His dedication is truly remarkable.

I met with him initially back in August where I agreed to attend a group meeting.

It was harrowing to hear from so many affected by the disease. I would encourage anyone affected to get involved with the support group and continue the great work being done.

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Press Release: Work Experience Week 2023

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Last week, Alan Brown MP undertook a series of work experience placements in his constituency.

The representative for Kilmarnock and Loudoun visited different local businesses and organisations in Kilmarnock to see how they operate.

Mr Brown kicked off by serving hot cups of coffee in Café City, before being put through a rigorous personal training session from Conor Dorrans PT at Kamma Gym. The MP then went for a walk about the town with a local police officer before being given a facial treatment from MW Skin.

Mr Brown is also set to visit more businesses in the coming weeks, off the back of undertaking his first Work Experience Week since before covid.

Commenting, the MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun said:

“I always really enjoy going out to visit businesses and organisations in the constituency. It’s the first time I’ve been able to undertake my ‘Work Experience’ since covid as it is something I liked to try and do most years prior to the pandemic.

“It was important to visit a range of different businesses and industries, I feel I achieved this by visiting the hospitality, self-care and fitness sectors as well as the public service.

“From Mel giving me my first-ever facial at MW Skin to the intense workout with Conor Dorrans at Kamma Gym, I've gained invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of small businesses and public service providers. Both Mel and Connor are also effectively lifestyle coaches improving the wellbeing of their clients and that underlines the importance of these businesses.

“I extend my heartfelt thanks to all who generously shared their time and expertise. As I eagerly look forward to visiting Utopia and Annandale Home Improvements in the coming weeks, I am excited to continue exploring and advocating for the thriving enterprises that shape Kilmarnock and Loudoun.

“If you are a local organisation or business and would like me to come out and see how you operate, please contact my office on 01563 501412/alan.brown.mp@parliament.uk”.

Cafe City

Conor Dorrans PT

Police Scotland

MW Skin

 

MacMillan Coffee Morning

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I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who attended my office’s Coffee Morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support on Friday.

It was great to see so many organisations have one to raise money for a truly fantastic cause. I also want to pay tribute to those who donated to my JustGiving fundraiser, it is much appreciated.

The fundraiser will remain open for another week or so if anyone would still like to donate. The link to donate is pinned on my social media accounts (Below).

So far we have raised £170.

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Killie Community Walk and Talk

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Despite the weather, there was a good turnout at the Killie Community’s Walk & Talk.

The club’s charity does so much wonderful and worthwhile work and I really enjoyed partaking in this particular event. It runs every Wednesday afternoon and combines exercise with the love of the football club – everyone is welcome!

However, last week the group was treated to 97 Cup Winning Captain Ray Montgomerie and Club Historian John Livingston joining them for the stomp around the town. It was brilliant to hear the stories from Monty - and it is always fascinating to see John Livingston’s remarkable knowledge of the club in action.

Massive well done to the club for running these events, and I would encourage constituents to try it out. For more information, please contact the Killie Community.

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Opening of Crosshouse Primary

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As MP, I was truly honoured to officially open the new Crosshouse Primary School, Communication Centre and Early Childhood Centre. The occasion was made even more meaningful by the fact that my two sons were pupils there over a decade ago.

The transformation we witness today is truly remarkable and a testament to the dedication and hard work invested in this project. The building now perfectly embodies the school's motto of 'Be the best you can be.'

Moreover, our commitment to inclusivity remains strong with the continued support of the Communication Centre, which caters to children with social and communication disorders.

The Centre reflects the local authority’s dedication to providing tailored support for every child's unique needs.

As we celebrate this milestone, let's look forward to a future where the school continues to nurture our young people’s minds and embraces diversity.

Crosshouse Street Surgery

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I am looking forward to being in Crosshouse on Thursday (21st September) as part of my Street Surgery engagement.

My staff and I will be knocking on doors in; Crossdene Road, Springhill Avenue, Corse Place, Loudoun Place, Credon Drive, Craigie Place and Dean Place between 1.00 and 4.00 pm.

It’s always great to get out and about and talk to constituents on their doorsteps about matters that are important to them.

However, if you will not be in or do not reside in the areas listed above but have an issue you would like to discuss please contact me: 

alan.brown.mp@parliament.uk / 01563 501412 or drop into my office at 31A Titchfield Street in Kilmarnock (KA1 1QW).

MacMillan Cancer Support's Big Coffee Morning 2023

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On Friday 29th September my office will be hosting a coffee morning in support of MacMillan Cancer Support. Cancer is a battle that touches the lives of countless individuals and families across our constituency and beyond. Macmillan Cancer Support is doing incredible work to provide vital care, information and support to those affected by this challenging journey. Feel free to drop in on the 29th and have some coffee and cake to raise money for a wonderful cause. If you are unable to attend, but would still like to donate, then you can HERE

The link is also pinned on my social media accounts…

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Statement on Senior Traffic Commissioner Recommendations

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I am pleased that common sense has prevailed and that the proposed changes to football supporters’ buses have been shelved. I ran the Irvine Valley Supporters’ Bus for 26 years and still use this form of travel for the vast majority of away games, it was never going to work.

I am proud of every single fan who stood up to these draconian proposals and made their voice heard – there is no doubt that the backlash on social media made them rethink these horrendous suggestions – no buses to stop within 10 miles of a ground; people can only have a drink in a pub if accompanied by a “substantial meal”.

As John Barnes, the Killie commentator posed, how many Killie pies make up a substantial meal?! Scotland has the highest percentage of people who attend football matches than any other country in Europe, and for the Tories to even consider these plans shows how out of touch they are and the contempt they hold for our national game.

It seemed to come as a surprise to many that there is a GB Commissioner that can impose policies on Scotland, and this reinforces the powers that Westminster retain.

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Constituent Case Success

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I'm thrilled for my constituent, Sarah Kjoelstad and her family, on finally receiving 10 years leave to remain.

To say it is disheartening that it took this long would be an understatement, especially after the Judge's ruling almost a year ago. The Home Office must improve its processes; too many people endure this stress and anxiety.

My office has worked tirelessly to achieve this outcome, but it shouldn't have reached this stage. Sarah’s case highlights the bureaucratic inefficiencies in our immigration system.

Her family, including UK citizens, faced unnecessary hurdles since February 2022. Denied due to technicalities, their appeal was approved in December 2022, yet the Home Office delayed issuing the BRP card for almost a year!

This left Sarah unable to work, access healthcare, or even open a bank account. It's unacceptable that the Home Office provided no timeline for resolution.

As an MP, I'll continue to advocate for individuals like Sarah and push for a more efficient and fairer immigration process.

I was delighted to welcome Sarah and her son to the office last week to celebrate her well-deserved grant of leave to remain.

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Press Release: Bonnyton Flyers Visit

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Last week (Thursday 24th August 2023), Alan Brown MP visited Bonnyton Flyers in Kilmarnock.

The representative for Kilmarnock and Loudoun dropped-in to have a kick about with the Flyers at the Galleon Centre.

Formed in 2014 by John Keast, Bonnyton Thistle Flyers are a disability football club for adults of all ability levels and are affiliated with Bonnyton Thistle FC.

Once a week they meet for a kick about and a chat with their teammates.

Commenting on the visit, Mr Brown said:

"Joining the Flyers is always such a heartwarming experience. Witnessing the passion and camaraderie among the players is a testament to the unifying power of sports.

"As the representative for Kilmarnock and Loudoun, engaging with local initiatives like the Bonnyton Thistle Flyers is a privilege. The dedication that John Keast has shown in establishing and nurturing this disability football club is truly inspiring. It's not just about the game itself; it's about fostering a sense of belonging and boosting their self-confidence.

“The work being carried out by John is truly remarkable and I was so happy to see him get the recognition he deserves at the recent Killie Community Champions Awards, after being presented with the Volunteer Award by Pat Nevin.

"Football has a remarkable way of breaking down barriers and creating connections. The Bonnyton Flyers personify this spirit by providing a platform where abilities shine, and friendships are formed. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share a session with them and witness first-hand the joy they derive from the beautiful game.”

John Keast, also commented:

“Encourage, support, and learn...the Flyers way.

“No, we are not all goalies...but we are all No.1.”

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Press Release: Mauchline Street Surgery

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Last week (Wednesday 23rd August), Alan Brown MP chapped around 200 doors in Mauchline as part of his Street Surgery engagement.

This initiative is an integral part of Mr Brown’s approach to community engagement, allowing him to connect with constituents on a personal level and discuss the issues that matter most to them.

The representative for Kilmarnock and Loudoun was joined by local Ballochmyle Ward Councillors Claire Leitch and William Lennox, as well as his staff.

The group took to the doorsteps of Connell Crescent, Rawson Crescent, Whiteford Place, and Arran View to speak to constituents about both local and national issues.

This marked the MP’s fourth Ballochmyle area Street Surgery this year, following earlier stints in Lugar, Cronberry and Sorn.

Commenting, Mr Brown said:

 “Engaging with constituents on their doorsteps provides invaluable insights into their concerns and aspirations - it's about bridging the gap between policymaking and the real needs of our community.

"I was pleased to have Willie and Depute Provost Leitch join us for the Surgery. Their understanding of the local area and its unique challenges is instrumental in addressing the matters raised by our constituents.

“The residents appreciated the fact we were out and about, which is a common theme for our Street Surgeries. Taking the time to engage at their doorstep is an essential aspect of my role as their representative, no matter their political allegiance. This is about improving the constituency, and this is demonstrated through the number of cases my office has picked up this year as a result of our Street Surgeries.

“I look forward to continuing this initiative, especially in the Ballochmyle area of the constituency. I have a Street Surgery in Muirkirk planned later this year, as well as other pop-up surgeries and visits.”

For more information and details of future availability, constituents should contact Mr Brown on 01563 501412 / alan.brown.mp@parliament.uk or drop into his office at 31A Titchfield Street, Kilmarnock, KA1 1QW.

PHOTO L – R:

Isaac Kerr (Constituency Support Officer and Caseworker for Alan Brown MP), William Lennox (Councillor for Ballochmyle Ward), Alan Brown (MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun), Caroline Brown (Caseworker for Alan Brown MP), Gillian Fulton (Administrative Officer for Alan Brown MP) and Claire Leitch (Councillor for Ballochmyle Ward and Depute Provost).

NASA at the HALO

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Honoured to have met with Dr. Kathleen Rubins, a true inspiration as a NASA astronaut.

It's the first time I've *knowingly* met an astronaut - certainly not an everyday occurrence.

Her remarkable story and engaging lecture left a lasting impact, especially on the young minds present. The amount of questions really showed how engaged the young people were.

Thanks to Marie Macklin and everyone at HALO #RockMe for the invite and hospitality.

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