Counterfeit toy crackdown in North Ayrshire

North Ayrshire Council’s Trading Standards team has removed around £3,500 worth of potentially unsafe toys from sale after safety risks to children. The items were taken from several shops across the region and including Sonny Angel dolls, Squishy Fidget Foams, Squishy Buns, and KPop Demon Hunters figures. Officials say the goods may be toxic and have not been properly tested against UK safety standards. Councillor Alan Hill praised staff for helping protect children and their families in the local authority.

18/06/2026 8

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Busy week of Ayrshire events

Ayrshire residents have a busy week of events to enjoy, with exhibitions, family activities and live entertainment taking place from June 15 to June 21. Highlights include The Big Picture exhibition at C.O.A.S.T Gallery in Troon alongside the Scottish Maritime Museum Impressions and The Beach Today – A Year of Sea, Sky and Stone. A major attraction takes place on Saturday, June 20, when Ayr’s Low Green hosts the Summer Fayre with Armed Forces & Pipes in the Park from 11.45am […]

17/06/2026 28

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Irvine runner completes hundred-mile challenge

An Irvine runner has completed another major endurance challenge as part of his fundraising efforts for a regional charity. Levi Charlton, 53, successfully finished the 104-mile Ultra Scotland race in less than 31 hours in aid of Whiteleys Retreat near Ayr. The British Gas worker has already completed a number of demanding events, including the Yorkshire 3 Peaks and the 50-mile Pennine Way Ultra. Charlton is raising money for Whiteleys after visiting the charity’s respite centre in Alloway. The organisation […]

17/06/2026 13

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Waverley marks 79 year milestone

The historic paddle steamer Waverley is celebrating 79 years since its maiden voyage. Known as the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer, the vessel was built to replace the original Waverley, which was lost during the Dunkirk evacuation in 1940. Construction began in the aftermath of the Second World War before the ship entered service on Scotland's west coast on June 16, 1947. The vessel remains a popular attraction, operating cruises around the UK, including on the Clyde. Since being preserved […]

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Fire crews tackle Drongan blaze

Firefighters were called to an overnight blaze at a derelict building near Carston Farm in Drongan on Monday, June 15. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service received reports of the fire at 9.42pm and mobilised three fire appliances along with a high reach vehicle to the scene. Crews worked to extinguish the fire affecting the disused building. No casualties were reported as crews remained on-location until the area had been made safe.

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Girvan man strengthens Ayrshire and Canada link

A Girvan man has helped strengthen links between Ayrshire and Canada after making a 3,500-mile journey to a village in Ontario during the World Cup in North America. Stuart Campbell visited the Canadian community of Ailsa Craig that shares its name with the Ayrshire landmark. During the trip, he presented residents with Girvan’s new municipal flag, which features the island as part of its design. The gesture was warmly received and shared by Ye Olde Towne Hall in Ailsa Craig […]

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Viral Ayrshire pipers make national news in Boston

Three young viral pipers from Ayrshire have been recognised as part of Scotland fans' takeover of Boston for the World Cup, and have made national news as a result. Luca Dickson, 12, alongside brothers Leighton, 13, and Noah, 14, from Irvine have been praised for displaying their musical talents as the Tartan Army descended on America's east coast for their opener against Haiti on June 13. Known as The Bagpipe Brothers on Tik Tok, the trio have played their part […]

16/06/2026 133

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Brown backs charity campaign challenge

MSP Siobhian Brown is encouraging residents across Ayr, Prestwick and Troon to take part in the Scottish Association for Mental Health's Wee Pink Dot Challenge. The campaign promotes awareness and support for mental health, with the MSP backing the initiative following a meeting with representatives from SAMH at Holyrood. Brown is urging locals to get involved and support the challenge as part of wider efforts to raise awareness of mental health issues and encourage community participation across the constituency.

16/06/2026 15

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Ayr charity joins counselling body

An Ayr-based charity has secured membership of a leading professional counselling organisation. Ayrshire Council on Alcohol, which supports individuals and families affected by alcohol-related issues, has joined the recognised counselling body as part of its continued commitment to delivering high-quality support services. The charity says the membership reflects professional standards within the organisation and strengthens recognition of the counselling and support work across Ayrshire.

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