Remembrance Sunday saw a great turnout on a cold, dry day, to commemorate the lives lost by service men and women.

The Vale of Leven Remembrance Association organised a parade, the Vale of Leven Academy Brass Ensemble played, and Christie Park school children read out the names of the fallen, all combining to make a fitting tribute from the Vale.

West Dunbartonshire Council had refurbished the Cenotaph during the last few weeks as some of the 363 names on the Roll of Honour had become illegible in places.

Meanwhile, Girl Guiding Dunbartonshire held their annual review in the Dumbarton Academy.

Some 3,000 Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and senior section members take part with the help of 600 adult volunteers.

This is a fantastic opportunity being given to our young girls to make the most of their lives through activities, whist gaining confidence and contributing to society.

Awards were given for high achievements, and Her Majesty the Queen was represented by Mrs Jill Young, the Vice Lord-Lieutenant.

The Bonnie Banks may have made it into the National Lottery’s list of best attractions, but through the environmental work being done by The Lomond Fisheries Trust in four local Primary schools, it has become apparent that a large percentage of school children have never been to Loch Lomond.

I have been working on a project to bring a nature hub and countryside classroom to Balloch Country Park.

This would engage children and adults with our wonderful natural surroundings.

Balloch Park is easily accessible to all by public transport. At 71km², Loch Lomond is the biggest body of fresh water in the UK, holding 15 species of indigenous and introduced fish. There is so much to learn about, both in the water and on the land.

Last week MSPs debated Flamingo Land, with the general feeling being that a revised application will come back to the LLTNP.

It is puzzling why it is felt that there should be any development on the site at all.

There are many families who appreciate the open space, picnic benches and non-commercial aspect of this part of Balloch.