All four candidates to be East Lothian's next MSP back Drem-Gullane path campaign

Community activists have been campaigning for more than 15 years for a cycling and walking path to be created between the two communities.

Now, they hope the support will help deliver the footway – bypassing the busy B1345 – at some point this year.

Euan Davidson (Scottish Liberal Democrats), Craig Hoy (Scottish Conservatives), Paul McLennan (Scottish National Party) and Martin Whitfield (Scottish Labour) all believe the path plan is worth exploring.

In a joint statement, they said: “To address the climate change emergency, urgent action is required.

“That is why we support more active travel infrastructure to keep pedestrians and cyclists safe and encourage healthier and greener journeys.

“We pledge to do all we can to help community campaigners secure this vital link connecting Drem and Gullane.

“It is essential that local families, and visitors to the area, are given a healthy alternative that will allow safe travel between the villages.”

Last September, East Lothian Council and Sustrans Scotland pledged to take a fresh look at potential options for developing a safer link to cycle between the two villages.

Iain Monk, spokesman for the Drem-Gullane path campaign, was pleased to receive the support of the candidates, one of whom will succeed Iain Gray as the county’s MSP.

He said: “The science on climate change is clear and we are doing our bit to help lower carbon emissions by lobbying for more active travel infrastructure.

“We are delighted that East Lothian’s four election candidates are united in their determination to see a bike and walking-friendly path built between Drem and Gullane, which would bypass the busy B1345.

“Sustrans Scotland is currently considering an East Lothian Council funding application for the Drem section of the route.

“We are confident that Sustrans will provide the financial support to deliver this vital safe link between the villages.”