Largs’ Paralympic silver medallist Abby Kane has been praised for her prowess and bravery by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
Addressing the Scottish Parliament the FM stated that Abby, who won silver in the 100 metres backstroke at the Rio Games this month, had “single-handedly demonstrated to a whole generation, particularly young girls, what they can achieve by hard work and dedication.”
She added: “Abby made the Great Britain team at the age of 13, an inspiration in itself, and to win silver was absolutely fantastic.”
She was replying to a question from Cunninghame North MSP Kenneth Gibson who asked Parliament to honour the success of  Scottish Olympians and Paralympians.
He said: “I am sure she will concur with me at how much hard work was put in by the coaches and athletes, supported by the families. To go from 11 medals in 2012 to 17 in 2016 is truly heartening. The silver medal won by Abby Kane was particularly inspirational.”
Mr Gibson also asked what effect the new £12m Inverclyde sports centre in Largs would have in preparing Scotland’s future Paralympians.
The First Minister replied that she believed that the fully-inclusive facility, which is due to replace the former sports centre in spring, 2017, would be instrumental in training, aiding and preparing athletes for future events.
“Importantly, the centre will be available to the local community and a valuable asset to the area. They may never be Olympic athletes but will be encouraged to enjoy sport.”
This week Largs Academy pupil Abby will join other Olympians and Paralympians at a special celebration, hosted by Nicola Sturgeon, in Edinburgh.