Local MSP Craig Hoy this week visited the National Museum of Flight where he welcomed moves to boost visitor numbers and enhance the experience of those who visit East Lothian.
Mr Hoy, the MSP for South of Scotland, met Ian Brown, Assistant Curator of Aviation at the National Museum of Flight and Margaret Clift, the Head of Development at National Museums Scotland.
The visit included a tour of the only Concorde aircraft in Scotland and took place to mark Heritage Fund UK’s National Lottery Open Week.
As part of the Open Week, access to the museum is free when entrants show a lottery ticket when they arrive at the attraction.
Speaking after the visit, Mr Hoy said: “It was great to see how the museum has returned to operation since the Covid closure. The Museum of Flight is one of the best days out in the region and I’d encourage families to wing their way to East Fortune as they holiday close to home this year.”
He said: “It was good to learn more about the museum’s future development plans and to see how money raised through the National Lottery and other channels has enhanced the experience for visitors. As one of the MSPs for the South of Scotland, I look forward to working with the museum on its future plans.”
Mr Hoy, who is also a Councillor in East Lothian, added that he would fully support local tourism and hospitality businesses as the summer season gets underway.
“Our visitor attractions and hospitality businesses have endured a very tough time. While many staff have seen their jobs protected through the UK Government furlough scheme, there are still challenges ahead,” he said.
“Now things are beginning to return to normal, I will continue to press for support to ensure our tourism and hospitality sector bounces back as visitor numbers rise over the coming months.”
