WELL summer seems to have arrived at last and I attended my first gala day in Whitecraig.

Congratulations to the gala committee and their helpers for ensuring that a socially distanced event was held last Saturday. All the young folks seemed to enjoy the day – even if events were a bit limited out of necessity.

I was delighted to be asked to judge the garden competition, although given the quality of the entries it was a really tough one and, as is so often the case, I wished there were more prizes to give out – but in the end there were three winners. Well done everyone who took part and made the event such a success. I hope that as summer progresses, we will see more outdoor events returning to our communities.

On Monday, June 7, I spent the morning at Riverside Medical Practice. I found it very helpful and thank staff for taking the time to update me across a range of issues. The information given will be helpful in moving forward with resolving persistent problems impacting on patients.

Over a period, I have been getting increasing reports of anti-social behaviour blighting our communities. This seems to particularly affect Musselburgh and has reached levels which now require decisive action. I will be contacting both the police and the council to ensure that a strategy is in place to deal with this. Anti-social behaviour is pernicious and erodes communities. It has no place in our modern society.

Covid-19 still seems to be a recurring problem, with outbreaks continuing despite high levels of vaccination. We are all desperate to regain our freedom to live life as it was before lockdowns but we need to remain cautious. It is clear that a proportion of those who have been vaccinated are still capable of carrying and transmitting the disease. Please take precautions and follow the guidelines. Protect the vulnerable and those who are not yet vaccinated. Keep safe.

As I write this, I am waiting for the Euros to begin. Come on Scotland!