In Ayrshire, we are blessed with one of the most beautiful coastlines in Scotland. Like me, I am sure many of you will be heading to the beach this summer to make the most of some warm weather (fingers crossed).

However, with this comes the increased risk of water-based accidents and fatalities that happen suddenly and have life-changing consequences.

Following an increase in drownings in 2021, the Scottish Government launched the Scottish Water Safety Action Plan, which I am now taking forward as Minister for Victims and Community Safety.

Part of this plan has been to support Water Safety Scotland in the implementation of its Drowning Prevention Strategy.

I was pleased to see that the Outdoor Partnership Ayrshire worked with RNLI in Troon to deliver free water safety workshops, especially for those who have taken to paddleboarding.

I met with them earlier this year and was impressed to hear about how they are ensuring the public has a fun and safe summer.

We all have a part to play in keeping safe on the water. Please visit watersafetyscotland.org.uk to familiarise yourself with the Water Safety Code.

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Last month, I donned a high-vis jacket and visited the posties at Ayr’s delivery office for a behind-the-scenes tour and joined them on a round. It is amazing the amount of work that goes into getting our mail sent to us on time.

One thing I was concerned to hear from them was the risk of dog attacks they face each day. I heard stories of people being mauled by dogs and scared for life.

This is the last thing you should need to worry about when you wake up for work in the morning. Unfortunately, this is the reality for postmen and women across the country.

So please, help our posties by keeping your dog under complete control and out of the front garden during delivery hours. Even if your dog is friendly, keeping them away helps our delivery force to do their job without fear or hindrance.

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I was honoured to attend the recent Harbour Hero Awards in Prestwick with Cllr Julie Dettbarn and Cllr George Weir.

Harbour Ayrshire, as reported recently in the Advertiser, celebrated its first year of success with hundreds of people and volunteers who have been supported in recovery from addiction by the organisation.

I have met with volunteers at Harbour on numerous occasions and I am always taken aback by their hard work and commitment to helping those in our society who are struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. The organisation leads groups across Ayrshire for men and women and gives them an outlet to talk about their struggles and contribute positively to society.

I look forward to continuing to follow Harbour Ayrshire on its journey and offering support where I can.

Need my help? Email siobhian.brown.msp@parliament.scot or call 01292 810034.