A PAIR of Elderslie residents are setting up a new social enterprise in a bid to attract more tourists to the village.
John O’Neill, 74, and Lindsay Brown, 52, hope that the Wallace Foundation will bring more investment to the local community, which they claim has been neglected in recent times.
The duo, who were previously members of Elderslie Community Council, are now aiming to get as many local people and organisations as possible involved in their plans for the village.
John told The Gazette: "The Wallace Foundation is now a legal entity and is able to apply for funding from all different places.
"What we're trying to do is attract more people to Elderslie to bring in more trade and create jobs in the village.
"Individuals, companies, organisations and charities can join us. We're hoping to get everyone together under the one body, which will help us apply for bigger funding pots."
John and Lindsay have big ambitions for the Wallace Foundation, with the duo hoping to launch many different projects later this year.
Among the ideas being considered is the creation of several clubs, which will provide activities such as travelling and folk singing.
It is also hoped that funds can be raised to improve the condition of Elderslie's Wallace Monument, as well as a popular wishing well near the village's golf course.
The planned projects are designed to help develop Elderslie, which has long declared itself as the birthplace of the Scottish historical figure William Wallace, as a visitor destination.
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Lindsay said: "Getting people to visit Elderslie will help keep local businesses afloat and the Wallace Monument is important because of the history of William Wallace.
"Tourists will be able to see the monument, as well as explore the other different places in the village.
"We'll also have mental health groups and tea dances for the old folk at Elderslie Village Hall."
John added: "We are going to hold a community meeting about our plans for the Wallace Foundation.
"We don't know the exact date it will be held yet but it's probably going to be the last week in May."
For more information about the Wallace Foundation and the upcoming meeting, send an email to eldersliewallacefoundation@gmail.com.
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