Theesel explore floodlight extension for potential TV clash

Largs Thistle are considering applying for an extension to their floodlight curfew ahead of their Scottish Cup showdown with Ayr United. The third-round tie, scheduled for November 27–29, is being considered for a potential Friday night television broadcast. Floodlights at Barrfields Park are currently required to be switched off by 9pm following objections from residents. Committee member Alex Anderson says the club is exploring its options with North Ayrshire Council, hoping to secure an extension and avoid having to play […]

03/11/2026 5

News

North Ayrshire hamlet residents in HGV worries

Residents of a hamlet in North Ayrshire have raised concerns that their narrow rural road could soon carry up to 10,000 heavy goods vehicles every year. Barkip, near Beith, has been identified as the only viable alternative route for traffic serving a nearby biogas plant after a bridge on the existing access road was deemed unsafe for larger vehicles. Residents say they were not properly informed about the changes and fear for the safety of pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders […]

03/11/2026 7

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Late goals and drama in weekend Ayrshire action

Fan frustration continues at Kilmarnock after being held by 10-man St Johnstone in the Premiership as Ayr United and Largs Thistle served up some late Halloween thrillers across a dramatic weekend. Neil McCann's Killie were booed off at full time as they failed to capitalise on the man advantage against the Saints, being held to a 2-2 draw at Rugby Park. Saints goalkeeper Toby Steward was sent off inside 13 minutes for handling the ball outside of the 18-yard box […]

02/11/2026 36

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TomFest raises money for youth trust

The annual TomFest music festival in Mauchline has raised £5,926.68 for disadvantaged children and young people in South Ayrshire. The event celebrated its tenth anniversary this year, with the money going to Girvan Youth Trust. The organisation provides face-to-face youth work in the area and supports more than 350 young people every year. The festival is organised by Tom Murray, facilities manager at Land Energy, which has sponsored the event for the past decade. Despite challenging weather, the tenth anniversary […]

01/11/2026 9

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Councillor criticises late sandbag SOS

North Coast councillor Ian Murdoch has criticised North Ayrshire Council's response to the flooding caused by Storm Boelo in Largs, claiming sandbags arrived too late to prevent some of the damage. The storm brought together high tides, strong winds and heavy rainfall, flooding areas including Union Street, Bath Street, Main Street and the Pier Head. A number of local businesses were affected. Councillor Murdoch said he had tried to obtain sandbags on Sunday morning, but they did not arrive until […]

01/11/2026 12

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Three-year investment for storm damaged A78

Transport Scotland has confirmed £2.9 million of investment for the A78 between Skelmorlie and Largs over the next three years. The funding follows significant damage to the route during Storm Boelo, which led to sections of the road and sea wall being damaged and the road being closed. The investment will support improvements to existing infrastructure, including drainage, structures and active travel, alongside essential maintenance work carried out by road operator Amey. A phased reopening has been taking place, allowing […]

01/11/2026 9

News

Saturday scrap yard fire in East Ayrshire

Drone footage has revealed the extent of a major fire at a scrapyard in East Ayrshire at the weekend. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service sent three appliances to the scene at Kilmaurs Road in Knockentiber at around 4.53pm on Saturday 31 October. The blaze affected a number of vehicles and debris within the yard, with firefighters using a water jet to tackle the flames. Crews remained at the scene until after midnight as No casualties were reported Residents in […]

01/11/2026 10

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South Ayrshire Council wins national community award

South Ayrshire Council has received national recognition after winning a prestigious award for its work to improve town centres and support people facing employment issues. The council's Environmental Town Centre Programme was named Best Community and Neighbourhood Initiative at the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) Service Awards 2026. The programme, delivered by the council's Thriving Communities team in partnership with Waste Management, aims to create cleaner and more welcoming environments across the region. Participants work alongside the council's Waste […]

30/10/2026 29

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Popular Arran Hotel closes for refurb

A popular hotel on the Isle of Arran has closed its doors for a major refurbishment after being taken over by Ayrshire hospitality group Buzzworks. The Douglas, which has welcomed visitors for more than 170 years, is expected to remain closed until spring 2027. Buzzworks purchased the property in July and has announced that a seven-figure sum will be invested in its redevelopment. Plans include a welcoming pub and restaurant at the heart of the hotel, alongside newly designed bedrooms. […]

30/10/2026 16