I took one of my sons along and we spent most of the day there yet still only managed to get half-way round the various workshops and events!

It was great to see so many kids fascinated by the wonders of science that were illustrated in a fun way for visitors of all ages. I certainly learnt a thing or two, and watching some of the chemistry experiments brought back memories of the classroom.

The serious message from the day is that science is vitally important for understanding what makes the planet tick and how the modern world uses science for everyday uses, from detergents in our kitchens to techniques used in the NHS. Hopefully, some of the young people who attended will be inspired to learn more about science.

BIG Lottery Fund

THERE have been a couple of fantastic announcements about BIG Lottery Funding this week, and I am delighted the Scottish Government is contributing.

The First Minister gave our commitment to support young Scots leaving care and older people with dementia as well as their carers. The £50 million investment from the Scottish Government will go a long way to transforming the lives of young people and dementia sufferers as well as striving towards a fairer Scotland.

While the funding decisions are not made by the Scottish Government I know this money will continue to ensure every child gets the chance to fulfil their potential.

A further £35 million of BIG Lottery Funding will go towards their Forces in Mind programme that will help those veterans who struggle with the transition to civilian life. Many veterans suffer with psychological problems following their return, which subsequently impacts on the quality of their life and others around them. That is why this scheme that will benefit former armed forces personnel and their families is so important.

More information on these and other BIG Lottery Fund programmes can be found at www.biglotteryfund.org.uk

Glenfiddich is tops

I NOTE that Speyside's very own Glenfiddich has been crowned Scotland's best selling malt, knocking Glenmorangie off the top for the first time in many years.

I've taken part in the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival judging a few times now, and I know we have some fantastic malts in Speyside.

Well done to the Dufftown-based malt for hitting the headlines and getting Speyside to the top of the league table.

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