WITH the winter now over, Kirkconnel and Kelloholm is ready to sparkle.

That’s thanks to the Brighten up Kirkconnel & Kelloholm group who have been busy preparing for the summer.

It has been a busy few months but the rewards are blooming’ marvelous.

Group Chairperson Gary Hughes said: “Our biggest project has been getting the much needed work done to the surrounding garden at the War Memorial, “After endless red tape issues we were finally successful in achieving funding from Historic Scotland, along with match funding from Kirkconnel Coalfields Trust, to get this much-needed work done, “Kirkconnel and Moffat were the only two places in Dumfries & Galloway to be awarded funding from Historic Scotland.

“Once the work has been completed we begin the mammoth task of planting the 1000 Red Begonias ordered for the garden, as this is the Centenery year we want to make a spectacular display. Funding for the bedding display came from the Coalfields Community Futures Group.

“A successful funding application to Foundation Scotland secured our annual bedding display for the street boxes located at various positions in the village.” Gary continued: “Following the success of being receiving a Silver award at last year’s Beautiful Scotland completion, the group will be again participating in this year’s competition,” Gary and his team have also been working with the youth groups on various Biodiversity projects, The Men & Their Children group made bird boxes which will be erected on the trees along the Mavisbank Walk, while the Cubs group created a “Bugs Hotel.” As always, extra hands are required. They currently have 12 Committee members but always need more, If any person can spare some time in assisting in any way it would be very much appreciated, please contact Gary (67264) or Jessie (67646).