A local hero from Helensburgh made headlines as she joined Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie for the 25th-anniversary celebrations at the Scottish Parliament. Alison Gildea, accompanied by her son Fraser, was selected by Jackie Baillie to partake in the landmark event. Alison, a community champion, founded the charity Grey Matters in 2012, focusing on combating loneliness and isolation among the elderly in the Helensburgh area through various initiatives such as day trips, coach holidays, and tech clinics to keep older residents connected in the digital age.
The anniversary festivities took place at Holyrood’s Debating Chamber and included a reflection on the parliament’s accomplishments over the past 25 years, as well as performances showcasing Scotland’s music and culture. Following the ceremony, a lunch reception hosted by Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone was held. Jackie Baillie expressed her delight at having Alison Gildea and her son Fraser by her side for the occasion, acknowledging Alison’s dedicated efforts towards improving the wellbeing of the local community.
King Charles graced the ceremonial event, commemorating 25 years since the official opening of the Scottish Parliament by Queen Elizabeth II on July 1, 1999. Each of the 129 MSPs had the opportunity to invite a guest, with Jackie Baillie opting to nominate a local hero to join in the celebrations. Alison’s commendable contributions to the Helensburgh community, particularly during the challenging times of the pandemic, were recognised and celebrated during the landmark event.
As the Holyrood parliament marked its 25th anniversary, the presence of individuals like Alison Gildea served as a testament to the invaluable work being done in local communities across Scotland. The celebratory occasion not only highlighted the milestones achieved by the Scottish Parliament but also underscored the importance of community engagement and support, especially in promoting the wellbeing of vulnerable populations like the elderly.