They came together last week at Patna Community Centre to allow residents to discuss what their priorities are and how they would like to be active in making their ideas become reality which involves the establishment of a steering group which will help this happen.

As well as the business in hand, the younger members of the community were involved as the joint choir of Patna and St Xaviers primary schools entertained those in attendance with a polished performance which included a rendition of The Build-up Song, which was appropriate.

Two winners from each school had an added bonus of an extra round of applause for winning their respective Burns competitions, for which they received a presentation on the night. Churchman David McLarty welcomed everyone to the event.

Spokeswoman on behalf of the prospective steering group, Lynn Young, said: “There was a really good turn-out and we were overwhelmed by the good feeling and positive approach from the members of the public and representatives of the various organisations who attended.

“Lots of people signed up to pledge their support in the future, but the main thing was the demonstration of community spirit as well as the ideas that people were putting forward for things they would like to see happening.

“Among the suggestions were things like staging a gala day, having Christmas lights, and getting the community involved, while there was also a proposal to have more for young people between eight and 16-years-old. People were saying that there is nothing for them to do in the area.

“The young people themselves put forward some of the ideas which included upgrading existing play facilities, and we will also be looking at the possibility of having a skate park installed.” Next stage in the process will be to establish a constituted steering group with office bearers tasked to carry out the various functions of such an organisation, while being supported by East Ayrshire Council’s task force, Vibrant Communities, whose help has been invaluable so far.

“Their support has been tremendous. and hopefully we will start to see things happening as we keep the momentum going. It was a really positive event and it is important that we do not lose that. Further regular meetings will take place and we will be keeping everyone informed of our progress.”