A PROJECT which is working to improve the lives of people in part of Barrhead has been praised at the Scottish Parliament.

The Corra Foundation was congratulated for the work it is doing to make a difference to the community in Dunterlie.

The Dunterlie project was one of nine from across Scotland which attended a Holyrood reception to outline how their work is making a big difference to local people.

All are involved in the Corra Foundation’s People in Place programme, which engages with local residents and partners to understand their aspirations, challenges and shared priorities.

The foundation has helped address local needs and establish community events and projects, including a foodshare initiative developed from a six-week pilot to a now permanent facility.

Representing Dunterlie at the Holyrood event was its stalwart member Rena McGuire.

She was joined by Renfrewshire South MSP Tom Arthur, who said: “I was delighted to attend this reception and hear inspiring stories from people who are changing their communities for the better.

“It was a real pleasure to catch up with those involved locally, including Barrhead legend Rena McGuire.

“I know the action being taken in Dunterlie is having a real positive effect as the project goes from strength to strength.”

Dunterlie community member Jolene Woodhouse, who also attended the reception, said that, over the past few years, the area has become a close-knit community.

She added: “I moved here 11 years ago and was not aware up until a few years ago of how much was going on behind the scenes.

“Dunterlie Resource Centre has been a fantastic support and help in my life. Throughout my short time spent involved in the centre, I have become a more confident person and love the great community feeling.”