Going above and beyond
I was delighted to see two constituents included in The Queen's New Year Honours list.
Both Mark Jardine of Kirkbean and Kathleen Picken from Kirkcudbright are worthy recipients of the MBE and have made a remarkable contribution to the area.
Mark has been a driving force behind the People's Project in Dumfries and receives the honour for services to the community.
Teacher Kathleen has been involved in music, education and charity work in the Kirkcudbright area and beyond for almost 40 years and has been an inspiration to generations of young people.
I wish them both my warmest congratulations.
Local hero
It is not widely known but over and above the Birthday and New Year Honours, the Queen also oversees a third list called the 'Special Honours.'
And, to me, it seems particularly appropriate that a well-known community champion in Dumfries, Peter Angelini, has been included in the latest edition and deservingly awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM).
After witnessing some of the horrors of World War Two as a child in his native Italy, he eventually made his home in Dumfries and for more than 61 years has used almost every spare minute actively supporting charities, other organisations and individuals in need of help.
Looking much younger than his 81 years, former council worker Peter is also a poet who writes verses about important local occasions such as last year's opening of a children's literacy centre at Moat Brae.
Well done Peter, I'm thrilled you have been recognised. You are truly a very special gentleman.
Good turnout
There are many reasons I value our democracy -- not least the surprising number of countries worldwide where there is no automatic right to vote.
That's why I was delighted to see the excellent local general election turnout, around 70 per cent, despite wintry conditions.
I wish to thank everyone who exercised their vote, either by post or through their local polling station, including the 22,678 people who gave me their support in Dumfries and Galloway constituency.
Rest assured, what ever way you voted, I will do my utmost to highlight within the UK Government the particular issues facing our beautiful part of the world.
Sailing ahead
South west Scotland's scenic and rugged coastline is one of our many breathtaking natural attractions.
That's why I'm pleased VisitScotland has designated 2020 as a special Year of Coast and Waters.
A series of events is planned, including a Gretna to Stranraer 'Rowaround Scotland' stage, special activities on Loch Ken and more coastal rowing.
It gives me extra material as I sing the praises of the region at Westminster and encourage colleagues and others to come and see Dumfries and Galloway for themselves.