It’s been a refreshing change to see the sun shining in the last few weeks and, as it always does on a sunny day, it has brought lots of locals and tourists to the town.

The waterfront development looks even better in the glistening sun, and the spectacular views from the gym are encouraging people to exercise - even in the heat!

The pathway between Colqhoun Square and the leisure centre has a lot of foot traffic as people walk back and forth. As you may have read in last week's issue of the Advertiser, it was brought to our attention, at our Helensburgh and Lomond area committee meeting on June 13, that drivers of cars and vans are using the space next to the toilets to park their vehicles.

It would be extremely helpful if, instead of choosing to park here, cars parked in the actual car park outside the leisure centre. This choice will help avoid any accidents until a more permanent solution is provided. 

We were treated to many very positive reports at our area committee meeting last week, but the two I enjoyed the most were the ones updating us on progress made in recent months at Hermitage Academy and at all our primary schools across Helensburgh and Lomond.

It was very encouraging to see the statistics showing the schools were all outperforming the national averages. I am more of a 'feelings' type person, though, so I was particularly pleased to hear from some local head teachers who shared their reports and touched on what they are doing to support students who are struggling more than normal.

The cracks in children’s mental health after Covid are really showing now, and I am delighted to hear that it's an issue that is being taken so seriously.

As expected, the teachers said they could do with more money and staff to fully support pupils to the best of their ability. As a council, we will continue to do as much as we can to support our schools and young people.

Finally, and on a not unrelated note, I want to give a huge shout out to all our young people who have just sat their exams. I hope you gave it your all so you can be proud of yourselves, no matter the result.

Your exams matter but they definitely don’t define you. Well done! 

Stay safe and enjoy the summer.