Local MSP Cathy Jamieson has welcomed the news of £749,000 awarded to help regenerate Cumnock town centre.

The MSP who has been campaigning for improvements to the area now wants to see progress made as quickly as possible.

Amongst the plans for the cash including demolishing the former Cumnock Bingo Hall to provide additional car parking facilities in the town.

Speaking after hearing the news Cathy said: "This is a welcome boost for the area. Everyone in Cumnock knows how much of a difference it will make to have the town centre upgraded. I look forward to seeing the work get underway and I hope that East Ayrshire Council will submit further bids to the fund to secure improvements for other local communities.

Town centre regeneration is something that is supported by all political parties at Holyrood and I will give my support to any initiative that brings benefit to my constituents."