THE Scottish Seabird Centre received a visit from the county’s MP and MSP, who met with the charity’s new chief executive, Susan Davies.

The upstairs area in the centre underwent significant refurbishment earlier this year.

Plans are also underway for a major upgrading of the discovery centre and the classroom, due to happen later this year.

During the visit, Iain Gray MSP and Martin Whitfield MP found out about the centre’s 20th anniversary plans for next year.

Mr Gray said afterwards: “I have long been a supporter, and member, of the Scottish Seabird Centre.

"It is some time now since Susan took over as chief executive so summer was a good time to visit with Martin to catch up with her and learn about recent changes and future plans for the Centre.”

Mr Whitfield added: “The Scottish Seabird Centre is an important local visitor attraction and education facility. As well as its important local role, the centre also has a well-deserved national reputation for its conservation activities.

“I’m pleased that the prestigious centre is located here in East Lothian and welcomed the opportunity to meet Susan and chat to her about recent developments and its plans for the future, including next year’s 20th anniversary celebrations.”

Susan said: “We were delighted to host Martin and Iain for a visit at the Scottish Seabird Centre and to talk through our plans to develop our wider marine conservation, education, community activities for 2020-2025.

“We were also able to show them around the first phase of our refurbishment and give an overview of the exciting changes ahead for our discovery experience later this year.

"Their ongoing support and encouragement for our activities is welcomed and much appreciated; especially as we approach our 20th anniversary in 2020.”