Ayrshire MSPs support calls for visitors to enjoy beaches safely
Ayrshire 's costal MSPs are supporting calls for people to enjoy our beaches safely and responsibly.
Ruth Maguire, MSP for Cunninghame South, and Elena Whitham, MSP for Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley, have echoed the message to be responsible when at the beach.
Ms Maguire's constituency includes Irvine Beach - the location where 16-year-old teenager Kayden Moy was fatally injured last weekend, Saturday, May 17.
Speaking to Ayrshire Live, Ms Maguire said: 'Here in Ayrshire, we are blessed with a beautiful coastline and wonderful beaches. Unsurprisingly, in good weather many visitors of all ages flock to the area.
'They should be a clean, safe place for all to enjoy. Sadly, last week that was not the case at Irvine and the tragic death of Kayden Moy has rocked the community both in Irvine and East Kilbride. My thoughts and prayers are with Kayden's family and all who loved him.
'Regular updates from Police Scotland have been reassuring and I know they have provided additional patrols in the area alongside existing work taking place as part of Safer Shores.
'I am grateful to all involved in the Safer Shores initiative, including the volunteers at Coastwatch and Irvine Clean Up Crew for their tireless work to keep the beach safe and clean. But, maintaining our beautiful beach as somewhere desirable for all to use is not just down to the police, local authority or volunteers who so generously give their time.
'The appalling levels of litter strewn across Irvine Beach after each hot day is all brought there by individuals of all ages. It is not just food and drink containers being dropped but also towels and items of clothing.
'It is hard to understand the mindset of those who would litter and waste in this way, surely if you can carry it in, you can carry it home - please do so.
'I would echo the message of the Safer Shores initiative; No alcohol, No fires, No vandalism, No loud music, No drugs - Be respectful.
'Like many who live here, I'm proud that our town attracts people from far and wide, visitors are welcome. My sincere hope is that in the coming summer months we all play our part in keeping each other safe and our beach beautiful for everyone to enjoy.'
Ms Whitham's constituency is one of four Ayrshire constituencies which include costal communities.
She said: 'With our beautiful and accessible beaches, it has long been the case that folk from all over travel to enjoy the Ayrshire coast especially when the sun is shining.
'Every one of them have the right to return home safely. It is incomprehensible that Kayden Moy didn't. My thoughts are with all his family and friends during this heart-breaking time.
'The residents along our shores are all too familiar with the anti-social behaviour that we see each year.
'Everyone heading to the beach has a part to play in keeping it a safe and enjoyable space for all. That means no alcohol on the beach, tidying up after yourself, and looking after your health by staying hydrated and using sunscreen.
'This summer, the Safer Shores initiative will see increased police patrols along our coast. This sends a clear message: anti-social behaviour won't be tolerated, and anyone caught breaking the rules will face enforcement action.'
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