Marriage milestones marked in East Ayrshire

Four East Ayrshire couples have been celebrating landmark wedding anniversaries after reaching more than half a century of marriage. Michael and Williamina O’Brien of Muirkirk marked their diamond wedding anniversary and received flowers from East Ayrshire Council. Deputy Lieutenant Bill Stafford also presented the couple with a congratulatory telegram from the King and Queen Consort. Alex and Helen Linwood along with Ella and Billy Kirk of Cumnock celebrated 60 years of marriage, while James and Esta Sim of New Cumnock […]

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Free bus scheme for Armed Forces

Stagecoach is offering free bus travel across Ayrshire to mark Armed Forces Day celebrations later this week. The free travel scheme will be available on Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28 for serving military personnel, veterans and cadets using Stagecoach services around the region. Eligible passengers can travel free by showing the appropriate military identification, veteran’s badge or medal. Stagecoach South Scotland says the initiative is designed to recognise the contribution of serving personnel, veterans, reservists and military families […]

25/06/2026 32

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Football pizza fundraiser for school

Two brothers from Beith have helped raise money for their school after organising a football-themed pizza fundraiser. James McGurk, aged seven, and his brother Matthew, aged 10, worked with their family business, The Wee Pizza Co, to host a special fundraising night on Father’s Day. The event featured a menu of football-inspired pizzas including creations based on Scotland players and international star as they raised £310 for Beith Primary School. The school’s Parent Council thanked the family for their support, […]

25/06/2026 18

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Tractor rally makes return to Ayr

The Ayrshire Vintage Tractor and Machinery Club will return to Ayr next month for its annual rally, bringing a full day of nostalgia and family entertainment to the area. The 41st Ayrshire Vintage Tractor and Machinery Club Rally takes place at Whitefordhill Agri-Centre on the A70 outside Ayr on July 19. This year’s event will celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Ferguson TE20 tractor, the 70th anniversary of the Ferguson FE35 and 50 years of the Q-Cab. Visitors can enjoy […]

25/06/2026 112

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Scotland progress hopes hang by thread

Scotland supporters are facing an anxious wait after the national team’s 3-0 defeat to Brazil at the World Cup in Miami. The loss leaves Scotland’s hopes of reaching the knockout stages hanging in the balance, with qualification now dependent on results elsewhere in the final group matches this weekend. Supporters following the team in Florida described a disappointing performance but remain hopeful that Scotland can still progress as one of the best third-placed teams. Members of the Tartan Army over […]

25/06/2026 22

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Ayrshire venues prepare for Brazil thrill tonight

Venues in Ayrshire are gearing up to welcome punters for Scotland's vital World Cup encounter against Brazil tonight. Steve Clarke's men are only a win or a point away from progressing beyond the group stage for the first time against the four-time world champions. Businesses in the region are anticipating streams of the Tartan Army watching from home as they prepare to witness a piece of Scottish footballing history unfold. Venues such as First Edition in Kilmarnock along with Vic […]

24/06/2026 62

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Heart pilot praised by Kilbirnie man

A man has credited a pioneering NHS Ayrshire & Arran heart failure service with saving his life after he received a diagnosis and treatment within days of referral. William Kennedy from Kilbirnie had been suffering from worsening breathlessness and swelling in his legs before being referred to the BEAT to TREAT pilot service based at Kilmarnock Community Hub. After attending an appointment around 10 days later, tests confirmed heart failure and he was admitted to hospital for treatment the same […]

24/06/2026 17

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Opticians make children eye health plea

Parents across Ayr are being encouraged to prioritise their children’s eye health during Child Vision Awareness Month. The team at Specsavers Ayr is highlighting the importance of regular eye examinations, reminding families that NHS eye tests are free for all children. According to the store, many vision problems can develop without obvious signs, meaning children may not realise struggles with their eyesight. Optometrist and store director Peter Carson said regular eye tests are an important part of supporting a child’s […]

24/06/2026 12

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Archaeologists make golf course change claim

Plans to alter part of the course at Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club have prompted archaeologists to call for additional monitoring before work begins. The club has applied to North Ayrshire Council for permission to reroute holes on the course during improvement works. However, the West of Scotland Archaeology Service says the proposed development area may contain significant historical remains. Archaeologists believe the site could be linked to Bronze Age cremation burials discovered in the area during the 1840s. They have […]

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