East Renfrewshire MP Kirsten Oswald marked the 20th anniversary of the Auchenback Resource Centre (ARC) with an Early Day Motion at Westminster.

The ARC, located at 64 Aurs Drive in Barrhead had its grand opening on February 27, 2004, and since then, it has developed into a beloved centre for the community, hosting assorted groups, activities and events.

The 20th anniversary celebration was held on February 23, also coinciding with the installation of two commemorative benches named after prominent community members, Rita Connelly and Irene Simpson.

A founding member of Auchenback Active Limited, Rita served over the years as director, fundraising coordinator, and treasurer.

Irene, a devoted member, served in various capacities including the director, vice-treasurer, fundraiser convener and press correspondent.

Ms Oswald, a frequent visitor to the ARC, presented a copy of the Early Day Motion to some of the team on her visit on April 4.

She said: "Auchenback Resource Centre is a cherished community asset which offers so much to local residents and has played an important role in Barrhead for 20 years.

"At Westminster, I was glad to be able to mark the 20th anniversary of the opening of the centre with an Early Day Motion highlighting its importance to the community.

"As a regular visitor to the centre, I know from experience that the board go above and beyond in all that they do, and this is appreciated greatly by the huge numbers of local people who use the facility.

"It is very fitting that the two commemorative benches were named after Rita Connelly and Irene Simpson who gave so much to the local community and the centre, and I wanted to make sure their names were recorded in the Early Day Motion.

"I wish everyone at the ARC all the very best for the future."