PARLIAMENTARIANS praised a Cockenzie-based social enterprise for the support and services it provides to young people during a recent visit.

Douglas Alexander, Lothian East MP, and his Labour colleague Martin Whitfield, South Scotland MSP, recently visited Heavy Sound CIC, based at the Cockenzie Hub on Edinburgh Road.

The charity helps disengaged young people and adults, and was praised by Mr Alexander for its flexible and person-centred method of supporting youths by using methods such as music, martial arts, cycling and bike maintenance.

He said: "Heavy Sound is a truly outstanding local social enterprise undertaking life-changing work with local young people and adults.

"I was hugely impressed by the knowledge and commitment of the staff and volunteers, and the significant impact their engagement has on the lives of the young people they support."

Mr Whitfield, meanwhile, complimented the crucial services that Heavy Sound offered, including a trauma-informed mentoring service and community outreach initiatives.

He said: "I’m in contact with charities and community groups that work with disengaged young people across Scotland, and there is no doubt in my mind that Heavy Sound is one of the best and most successful at what they do.

“The dedicated support, care and empathy their staff and volunteers offer the young people they work with is invaluable on so many levels.”