Holyrood candidate Kate Forbes visits Badenoch businesses as restrictions ease
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The SNP candidate for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch was in Aviemore and Kincraig yesterday on the campaign trail before Thursday's Scottish Parliament elections.
Kate Forbes used some of the remaining time before the poll to visit local businesses and cafes following the recent reopening of the tourism industry.
Ms Forbes, who served as the constituency MSP over the past parliamentary term and is standing for re-election, said she recognised the importance of businesses being able to reopen and start trading again.
From last Monday (April 26), tourist accommodation and hospitality have been able to re-open along with indoor attractions and public buildings.
Restrictions on travel across Scotland have also been lifted, including travel to and from England and Wales.
Ms Forbes, SNP candidate for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, said: “I know that businesses have been desperate to reopen and start trading again.
“Last Monday was a key milestone in relaxing lockdown, as non-essential retail, hospitality and close contact services can now largely reopen. Our high streets have felt empty and deserted for too long.
“It was great to be in Aviemore and Kincraig chatting to businesses about their experience – as well as savouring local produce. Despite the rain, both places were relatively busy with lots of people stopping for a chat.
“Local SMEs (small and medium businesses) are the backbone of our Highland economy and they have done a tremendous job in the most difficult of years.”
Ms Forbes is defending a Scottish National Party majority of 9,043 on a 61.3 per cent turn-out at the 2016 election.
