Local MSP Craig Hoy recently visited and toured the newly re-furbished Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick.
The centre has re-opened the doors of their interactive Discovery Experience to visitors after eight months of closure due to an internal flood.
Newly appointed CEO Harry Huyton and Mr Hoy discussed visitor numbers, improved accessibility and how the centre can help promote awareness and understanding of marine conservation.
Speaking after the visit, Mr Hoy said: “It was great to meet Harry and his team, and I’d like to thank them for showing me around the wonderful centre.
“It was brilliant to see the centre reopen after many months of closure. I was pleased to learn more about plans for the upcoming 25th anniversary and hope to attend events to promote conservation. This centre plays a vital role in the tourism in East Lothian and is important to the community in North Berwick.”
The charity will celebrate its 25th anniversary and has been involved in a range of high-profile conservation and education projects, including the SOS Puffin initiative in the Firth of Forth. On April 1, the popular boat trips to view the Gannets on the Bass Rock will resume for the summer season.
He added: “The Seabird Centre offers a vast interactive educational experience for children and adults alike and is a perfect day out for visitors and locals. Harry and the team are keen for local people to visit the centre not just once but throughout the year as exhibitions and events are always changing.”
Seabirds are one of the world’s most threatened groups. One in three species are globally threatened with extinction, including populations of Atlantic Puffin and Black-legged Kittiwakes, which are enjoyed by visitors to the area.