ARDROSSAN CASTLE

That this House notes that Ardrossan Castle has been officially recognised as one of Scotland's Hidden Gems, having been voted one of the top six sites in the Dig It Hidden Gems Competition, as part of the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology; understands that the present ruins, parts of which date from the 15th century, sit on the site of an earlier structure; realises that Ardrossan Castle was partly destroyed during the Scottish Wars of Independence, in fighting involving William Wallace, but that it remained until 1648, when Oliver Cromwell's troops destroyed it; congratulates all those involved in Ardrossan Castle Heritage Society for the hard work and commitment they put in year after year to improving and publicising the castle and its history; appreciates the efforts involved in connecting the castle with the local community though events including the successful Ardrossan Castle Carnival; applauds the young volunteers who recently received Heritage Hero, Saltire, and John Muir awards for the significant improvement work they undertook at Ardrossan Castle arid Castle Hill; further notes the community spirit of Breen Roofing whose workshop facilities formed part of those efforts; and commends the whole community for its support in securing this fantastic accolade for Ardrossan Castle.