MILESTONES are worth marking, and I was delighted to note that the various concessionary bus travel schemes brought in by the Scottish Government have now reached the significant stage where 100 million bus journeys are being taken each year by holders of one or other of the concessionary travel cards.

Increased investment from the Scottish Government has meant that since 2014/15 over 894 million bus trips have been made across Scotland by passengers holding a concessionary travel card, including people over 60, those with a qualifying disability and young people under 22 years old.

In another related milestone, the most recent data available shows that there are 1.5million living in Scotland who are now benefiting from a concessionary travel card.

I am absolutely delighted that people in Clackmannanshire, and right across Scotland, are taking advantage of the concessionary travel cards available, and these figures underline the SNP's commitment to widening access to free bus travel.

Not only does supporting people to use public transport help everyone enjoy greater personal independence but it is a key we in which we can reduce our carbon footprint and tackle the climate emergency.

And there is no better way of encouraging bus companies to maintain and expand bus routes than by showing that those routes are well used.

I would encourage anyone in an eligible category and has not yet applied for a card to do so.

From increasing eligibility of the concessionary travel card to include injured veterans to rolling out free bus travel for young people under 22, the SNP is making sure people can get around without being put out of pocket.

Some very important achievements were recognised in Clackmannanshire recently as sports teams and athletes from across the area gathered for the annual Sports Awards.

Grassroots sports are a really important part of community life and, as many have shown in the past, can be the starting ground for really significant sporting careers or, just as importantly, provide an opportunity for individuals to improve their health and fitness, enjoy a social community and build bonds of friendship.

Amongst a number of inspiring stories, I want to make special mention of Brogan Kourire and Ellie MacLaren who won, respectively, the Participation and Adversity Sports Competitor parts of the Triumph Over Adversity Award.

Brogan has cerebral palsy and one arm but that hasn't stopped him becoming a keen rugby player and an active member of his team, whilst Ellie has achieved success in ASN Boccia competitions.

Many congratulations indeed to all of those from across Clackmannanshire who were nominated across the 13 categories, with particular congratulations going to those who came out as winners.

Thanks, praise and congratulations are due to all of those who organise, participate, promote, facilitate such a wide range of sporting opportunities right across my constituency.

Finally, I want to highlight the fantastic achievement by Clackmannanshire's Team of the Year from 2022, a worthy recognition for Alloa East End Ladies bowling club after they won the British Isles Champions.