An MSP has helped raise funds for vital research.

John Scott joined Prestwick walkers to raise over £7,000 for The Brain Tumour Charity.

The Prestwick Twilight walk took place along the waterfront and united those affected by brain tumour diagnosis. The 5km walked brought the community together to raise awareness and crucial funds for the research into brain tumours.

MSP Scott joined over 80 walkers, some directly affected by a family member’s diagnosis and some who are currently living with a brain tumour.

Long-time local supporter of The Brain Tumour Charity and living with a brain tumour herself Heather Dearie, 31, was key in organising the event.

She said: “The first ever Prestwick Twilight Walk was a huge success with over 80 walkers on the day.

“Everyone seemed to really enjoy themselves, so we’re already thinking about doing it again next year.

“Each of us are walking for our own reasons but for me personally, I wanted to organise this in honour of my beloved friend Viv McBeth, who did so much for me and for so many others in her many years working for The Brain Tumour Charity as a community fundraiser.

“Viv was much loved in the local region and across the UK as part of a key network of charity staff championing The Charity’s aims. She sadly died from a brain tumour last year.

“Viv always wanted to do a Twilight Walk close to home, so I thought this would be a fitting tribute to her and to everyone we have lost to or is living with a brain tumour in the Ayrshire community.”

Heather was diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma in 2010 after 18 months of misdiagnosis.

The walk was part of the nationwide October campaign by The Brain Tumour Charity to raise awareness and vital funds into research for treatments for this devastating disease.

Heather added: “After two brain surgeries which caused facial paralysis and deafness among many other side effects, and three facial corrective surgeries which have caused nerve pain, I’ve accepted my life will never be, nor will I ever look ‘normal’.

“I want to use my experience to raise awareness of both symptoms and The Brain Tumour Charity’s work, so that others won’t have to go through what I did.”

“I couldn’t have done this without Morag Litton who has been a huge help and Katie Grier who has been so supportive from the initial idea. It was an emotional but fun day for everyone involved.”

The Brain Tumour Charity is the UK’s largest dedicated brain tumour charity, committed to fighting brain tumours on all fronts.

They fund pioneering research to increase survival and improve treatment options along with raising awareness of the symptoms and effects of brain tumours to bring about earlier diagnosis.

John Scott MSP explained how well the walk was received and the generosity that was given.

“This hugely successful fundraising event was a fitting tribute to the memory of Viv.

“I really enjoyed taking part in this Twilight walk on the Prestwick Prom late on Saturday afternoon, and I congratulate Heather and all her team for the successful organisation on the day. The sum raised will be a huge benefit to The Brain Tumour Charity, and I thank you to everyone who took part on the day, as well as those who donated so generously towards this magnificent total.”