MSPs have applauded the Advertiser's successful #KeepSafeDrive campaign, after Clackmannanshire Council approved a £3,000 grant this week.

Elected members became involved after viewing the hard-hitting roadshow at the Macrobert Arts Centre in Stirling in early February.

Alexander Stewart, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, later secured a debate in the Scottish Parliament to discuss the group's funding problems.

He said: "I am absolutely delighted that the final piece of this funding jigsaw puzzle is now nearing completion, which is a major step forward towards securing the future of the Safe Drive, Stay Alive campaign and that this invaluable road safety project can thrive and survive for generations to come.

"The majority of the superb publicity for this campaign can be accredited to the excellent Alloa Advertiser and its team of dedicated reporters who have spearheaded this campaign from the very start and kept going with it, ensuring as much public recognition and exposure as possible.

"In addition to this, the tireless organisational work of Alan Faulds - who has worked on the project since it started, along with Tesco's community liaison officer Melanie Mitchell - has been invaluable.

"It is now up to all of us to keep our eye on the ball and ensure that both the funding and the great momentum of Safe Drive, Stay Alive is kept going in order to maintain, retain and sustain this life-saving project well into the future."

Last month, Green MSP Mark Ruskell was out on the streets of Alloa trying to garner signatures for the Advertiser's petition.

He said: "I am pleased that Clackmannanshire Council have agreed to contribute to the funding of the Safe Drive Stay Alive programme, along with Falkirk and Stirling Council's.

"This relatively small sum of money will contribute to a fantastic road safety programme which helps warn young drivers of the potentially-devastating consequences of dangerous driving.

"The Safe Drive Stay Alive roadshow has undoubtedly helped save lives in the area and I am hopeful that this funding will enable it to continue keep our streets safe.

"The Alloa Advertiser deserves credit for running a powerful and effective campaign."

Labour MSP Alex Rowley added: "This is wonderful news and it's very much to the credit of the local councils that they have agreed to support the volunteers without whose dedication the event would not be possible. I'm pleased to know that the good work can continue."

Speaking after Monday's budget meeting, Councillor Ellen Forson, the SNP's education spokesperson, confirmed: "I am delighted to confirm that £3000 of funding for the Safe Drive, Stay Alive Roadshow was approved in the council's budget.

"It is disappointing, however, that both Labour and their Conservative partner failed to vote in support of the funding - despite what their colleagues have been saying at Holyrood.

"This funding will go some way to ensuring the future of this very effective initiative and I look forward to further discussions on how we can best offer support moving forward."

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