2023 has been a difficult year for many residents and families who have struggled with the impact of the cost of living crisis.

In the face of this, the council has provided support and information in relation to energy, money, food, wellbeing, business, and community.

This information, which can be found at www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk, can provide real support and go some way towards easing some of the pressure on them.

As deputy leader of the council, I have been busier than ever in our communities as we work to deliver services at a time when finances are tighter than ever.

Despite these challenges, 2023 provided many highlights.

We saw the opening of Netherthird Primary School, a learning environment that the pupils, teachers, parents, and carers can be proud of.

Netherthird Community Centre is now owned by the community, and what a fantastic job they do.

There were plenty of celebrations as Cumnock Juniors FC lifted the Scottish Junior Cup, while volunteers at the Cumnock Juniors Community Enterprise have put in a marvellous effort delivering community wellbeing through footballing activities.

Ochiltree has been recovering from the pandemic with Cafe@45 being well utilised by the community for lunches, dances, and events.

New Cumnock has seen the start of a social enterprise aimed at restoring the Castle Hotel.

October saw the official launch of the 9CC group - bringing together nine community councils with the goal of providing an equitable split of wind farm community funds across the area.

The success of the group is such that the Scottish Government is using the group as a template for communities across Scotland.

Although it has been a challenging year, it has been great to see communities delivering and working together for their residents.

I would like to thank them all and hope they had a wonderful Christmas, and trust that 2024 brings a prosperous new year.