Hospice in fundraising book launch

Ayrshire Hospice has announced the launch of its very first book, A Bear Called AH!, with all proceeds set to support its work across Ayrshire and Arran. The book has been written by Lorraine Johnston and features illustrations donated by 12 artists who came together as “Team Bear”. The story follows a young boy called Alex, who discovers a bear with his initials before learning the stories behind many other treasured bears and the people who own them. The hospice […]

01/07/2026 17

News

Three towns girl graduates in Gaelic

A twelve-year-old from Ardeer has become the first child in North Ayrshire to graduate in Gaelic after completing her studies at the Gaelic school based in Kilwinning. Mira McLean began learning Gaelic as a young child through local toddler groups before joining the newly established Gaelic Whitehirst Park school when it opened in 2020. Her younger brother Ace also attends the school, and the family have embraced learning the language together despite having no previous Gaelic background. After the summer […]

01/07/2026 12

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Former Ayr bingo hall in risk register

Ayr’s former Boswell Park Bingo Hall has been added to Scotland’s Buildings at Risk register, with heritage campaigners calling for the landmark building to be protected. The Art Deco building, also known as Green’s Playhouse, originally opened in 1931 and was once the second-largest cinema in Scotland before later becoming a popular bingo hall. The venue closed in February 2023 and was recently offered for sale. SAVE Britain’s Heritage says the building is one of 42 Scottish sites added to […]

01/07/2026 26

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Lochgreen takeover complete by Costley

Lochgreen House Hotel in Troon has officially become part of the Cumnock-based RAD Hotel Group following the completion of a takeover agreement with Bill Costley. The acquisition gives the family-run business a portfolio of 10 hotels across Scotland and marks its first five-star property. RAD says it plans to preserve the hotel's historic character while continuing to develop its reputation as one of Scotland’s leading hospitality and wedding destinations. The company has confirmed the hotel will continue operating as normal […]

01/07/2026 35

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Centrestage celebrates 20 years

CentreStage is celebrating a major milestone after marking 20 years since first opening its doors in Kilmarnock. The arts establishment has worked with thousands of people, using music and the arts to help build friendships and create a welcoming community for people of all ages and backgrounds over the past two decades. Marking the anniversary, a spokesperson said the organisation was founded on the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to discover their potential through participation in the arts. […]

30/06/2026 19

News

Ayrshire reacts as Clarke leaves post

Football supporters in Ayrshire have shared their thoughts following the news that Steve Clarke stepped down as Scotland manager after their World Cup journey ended this weekend. Ayrshire native Clarke led the national team to three major tournaments for the first time in over 20 years since taking charge seven years ago, but has decided to step aside following their latest disappointment at this year's FIFA World Cup. A 3-0 to defeat to Brazil in Group C on Wednesday and […]

30/06/2026 39

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East Ayrshire venues make awards list

Nine food and hospitality businesses from across East Ayrshire have been shortlisted for this year's Food Awards Scotland. Principal Café in Galston, La Dragon in Kilmarnock, along with Lochside House Hotel, Lodges and Spa in New Cumnock are just a few of the venues in the region to be nominated for the top prize. The winners will be announced at the Food Awards Scotland ceremony in Glasgow on August 17. Organisers said this year's finalists have demonstrated outstanding dedication, innovation […]

30/06/2026 17

News

Postman praised for fire saving efforts

Firefighters were called to tackle a blaze in the rear garden of a property in Monkton at the weekend, and a local postman has been praised for his heroic efforts The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service received the call on Saturday 27 June at Wellington Drive and sent two appliances to the scene after reports of a fence on fire. Videos shared locally showed smoke billowing from behind the house, while residents credited the postman with rescuing a dog from […]

30/06/2026 28

News

Miss Great Britain Ayrshire crowned

Robyn Archibald has been crowned Miss Great Britain Ayrshire 2026 and will now represent the region at the national final later this year. The Miss Great Britain Ayrshire organisation announced Archibald's success and said they were excited to see everything she achieves during her year as titleholder. She will compete at the Miss Great Britain national final this October, proudly representing Ayrshire on the national stage. The event was supported by a number of local sponsors, including HAUS of Dentistry, […]

30/06/2026 24