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 41

News

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 25

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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 45

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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 23

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 42

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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 30

News

Campaign chair recognised at Parliament

A chair of a North Ayrshire campaign group has been officially recognised as a local hero by the Scottish Parliament. Frances Gilmour, of Save Ardrossan Harbour, was invited to attend the state opening of Parliament as a guest of King Charles after being nominated by Scottish Green MSP Cara McKee. She also received congratulations from Holyrood Presiding Officer and Cunninghame North MSP Kenneth Gibson. The Save Ardrossan Harbour campaign praised Frances for bringing the group together in 2024 and leading […]

30/06/2026 16

News

Dance stars shine at annual show

Young dancers from the Julie Carson School of Dance impressed audiences during their annual performance at St Matthew's Academy in Saltcoats last week. The showcase featured performers aged from just three years old through to 30, with dance teacher Julie Carson praising the high standard of performances and the support from families and friends. Carson has been teaching dance across North Ayrshire for more than 40 years, with regular classes continuing at St Peter's Parish Centre in Ardrossan.

28/06/2026 24

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Tourism leaders join for visitors pilot

Tourism leaders from across Ayrshire are joining forces on a new pilot project designed to attract more international visitors to the region. The summer initiative is backed by Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, VisitScotland and the area's three local authorities. The one-year programme aims to raise Ayrshire's profile at major international travel events, promote the region's world-famous golf courses as well as heritage and coastal experiences to encourage more overseas visitors.

28/06/2026 28