Ayrshire reacts as Clarke leaves post

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 […]

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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 […]

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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 […]

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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, […]

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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 […]

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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.

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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.

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Update given on harbour works

North Ayrshire Council has provided a further update on work taking place at Ardrossan Harbour ahead of its planned redevelopment. The council confirmed that statutory harbour authority responsibilities transferred from Ardrossan Harbour Company Limited to CMAL following approval by Scottish Ministers, as the change took effect on June 17. Ongoing improvement work includes refurbishing mooring bollards, replacing safety equipment and upgrading harbour access. Further public consultations in Ardrossan and Arran are expected later this year once updated redevelopment plans are […]

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School safety priority for council

North Ayrshire Council says maintaining safe and orderly schools remains a top priority following concerns raised about aggression and violence in classrooms. Speaking at the council's final meeting before the summer recess, Councillor Margaret Johnson said unacceptable behaviour can include verbal abuse, physical assault, intimidation and damage to property. She said every incident is treated seriously, with responses based on the individual circumstances to protect staff, support young people and maintain safe learning environments.

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