The First Minister Nicola Sturgeon recently stated Scotland is ‘willing and able to take refugees immediately’. I have to agree with her.

I am supporting the Scottish Refugee Council spread the message #Ayewelcomerefugees.

The photograph of the body of a three-year-old boy washed up on a Turkish shore truly broke my heart and I felt compelled to do something.

As Scots we are a loving and welcoming nation and I am sure we will come together to aid as many people as we can.

Epilepsy Scotland I had a wonderful afternoon at the ladies lunch for Epilepsy Scotland. The Corinthian Club in Glasgow was transformed for a scrumptious three course meal and entertainment came from The Jersey Tones, who had everybody on their feet boogying!

We heard from an inspirational girl named Sophie, who gave us an insight into what life is like living with a condition which affects 54,000 people in this country.

The charity does great work to support the families and carers of people with epilepsy.

Reality: The Musical You must catch Michelle McManus in her one woman show at The Beacon Arts Centre tonight – if there are any tickets left.

I saw her at The King’s Theatre and I can guaranteee laughter, tears and some great stories, as only Michelle can tell them. She takes us from winning Pop Idol in 2003 through to present day and performs iconic songs from musicals such as Cabaret and Les Miserables.

If you miss out on her visit to Greenock, you may be able to catch her in Hamilton or Falkirk.

Nomination Time!

Great news as you now have until Friday 25 September to enter ‘Reach for the Stars’, the Inverclyde Awards 2015.

Get your nominations in for any of the categories including local volunteers, charities, social enterprises and voluntary organisations. There is so much great work going on in our community, this is a chance to recognise all the achievements.

The prizegiving ceremony will be hosted by me at the Beacon on 4 November. For more details go to the CVS website.