CATRINE was the centre of a UK-wide research project which examined various issues and needs of rural communities.

The village was paid a visit from researchers from London to take part in a three-hour discussion.

Emily Morrison of the Institute for Community Studies, based at the Young Foundation from the UK capital led the discussion with local community leaders, East Ayrshire Vibrant Communities representatives and Catrine community activists also in attendance at the A.M Brown Institute community centre in the village.

The discussion ranged from lack of provision for victims of substance abuse and their families, to the need for more accessible and comprehensive social services for the elderly.

The ‘critically diminishing’ bus services to Ayrshire villages was also a hot topic, as was Food Bank accessibility. Cuts to local authority funding was also discussed as well as a talk around the how volunteer groups play a crucial role in rural communities to fill gaps in provision.

Emily described the experience as “fascinating and fruitful and hailed the village as a “rather magical place”.