POLITICIANS had the chance to learn about 30 years of successful social enterprise development in the Wee County when a local organisation was at Holyrood.

Clackmannanshire Third Sector Interface (CTSi) last week hosted an exhibition stall to highlight the growth of the social enterprise sector in the area.

It was also an opportunity to promote the recently launched social enterprise strategy for the Wee County, which focuses on support to aspiring organisations and raising awareness.

Anthea Coulter, chief officer at CTSi, said: "CTSi had an excellent week in the Scottish Parliament and would like to thank Keith Brown MSP for sponsoring the event which focused on our successful social economy.

"We were able to talk to around half the MSPs through the three days, even though it was an eventful week in politics, and highlight the amazing work and growth of the social enterprise sector in Clackmannanshire."

She added: "MSPs engaged keenly from all parties and valued learning much about the social economy."

The stall was sponsored by local representative Keith Brown, who thanked CTSi for "showcasing some of the best of Clackmannanshire".

He said: "The stall was fantastic and the team from CTSi did a brilliant job informing MSPs from across Scotland of the incredible work going on in Clackmannanshire by charities, community groups and local volunteers.

"It was a great opportunity to raise awareness of CTSi's five year social enterprise strategy, which will be crucial in ensuring the continued vitality of the third sector locally."

MSP Mark Ruskell also visited.

He said: "CTSi are a great example of what can be achieved by a dedicated and committed team. The support they provide to local charities and social enterprises has been invaluable to many and the organisation clearly has some exciting plans to continue their success. I look forward to working with them in the future."

The politician also called for targeted support from the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Deal to expand social enterprises.

He added: "From recycling and repair to supporting vulnerable people through employment, these businesses have a really important focus to do good locally."