matt.finlay@nowayrshireradio.co.uk

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News

Spider Monkey Roasters Troon reveals major refurbishment plans

Spider Monkey Roasters on Portland Street in Troon has announced that its recent closure has developed into a larger-scale refurbishment project. What initially began as a short break has expanded into significant changes across the business. The team say they are updating the shop’s layout, décor, product offering, and overall direction. As part of the changes, the café is also looking to recruit new baristas and staff, with opportunities available for those interested in joining the business ahead of its […]

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News

Joanna’s Chippy Van backed by Irvine Community Council

Joanna’s Chippy Van has received backing from Irvine Community Council amid an ongoing dispute over licensing rules in North Ayrshire. Owner Calum Kennedy has raised concerns about a restriction that limits mobile food vendors to just 20 minutes in one location. He argues the rule makes it difficult to operate safely and serve customers effectively, particularly when dealing with hot equipment. Irvine Community Council has agreed to support the business by contacting North Ayrshire licensing officials to seek clarification and […]

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News

Fundraiser supports University Hospital Crosshouse stroke unit

A sponsored walk between Galston and Newmilns has raised £300 for the Acute Stroke Unit at University Hospital Crosshouse. The fundraiser was organised by Joann Allan, who suffered a stroke in February 2025 while volunteering at the hospital café. With support from her stroke group, as well as friends and family, she completed a five-kilometre walk along the river. Staff at University Hospital Crosshouse have thanked her for the donation, saying contributions like this help support both patients and services […]

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News

Scottish Grand National returns to Ayr Racecourse today

The Scottish Grand National is taking place today, at Ayr Racecourse, drawing attention from across the horse racing world. The feature race is scheduled to begin at 3.35pm, with coverage starting earlier in the day. Among the runners attracting attention is King Of Answers, with strong interest ahead of the event. The race remains one of the biggest fixtures in Scotland’s sporting calendar, bringing crowds and excitement to Ayr each year.

today18/04/2026 21

News

Gordon Picken retires from Ayr’s Picken and Son

A long-serving Ayr butcher has retired after an extraordinary 60-year career in the trade. Gordon Picken has stepped down from Picken and Son, the family-run business on Main Street which has been serving the town since 1870. Having joined as a teenager, Gordon spent decades helping to maintain the shop’s reputation for traditional craftsmanship and customer service. The business will now continue under his brother Colin Picken and sister-in-law Maureen, ensuring the family legacy carries on.

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News

Largs Academy tops North Ayrshire school rankings

Secondary schools across North Ayrshire have been ranked in a new national league table published by The Times. The rankings are based on the percentage of pupils achieving five Highers or equivalent qualifications. Largs Academy and St Matthew’s Academy in Saltcoats were the highest-performing local schools, both with 55 per cent of pupils reaching the benchmark. Auchenharvie Academy and Garnock Community Campus also recorded notable improvements, while all nine North Ayrshire secondary schools featured in the national list.

today18/04/2026 59

News

Annbank Primary pupils back Ayr Rotary Aquabox appeal

Pupils at Annbank Primary School have helped raise funds for a global cause in partnership with Ayr Rotary Club. The children collected more than £175, which will go towards purchasing Aquabox water filters for communities affected by disasters. The fundraising effort means five devices will now be provided. Aquabox filters are designed to produce clean, safe drinking water and are distributed worldwide to areas where access to clean water is limited or contaminated.

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News

Terracotta Coffee opens on Ayr’s Barns Street

A new café has officially opened in Ayr, bringing a fresh offering to Barns Street. Terracotta Coffee has taken over the unit previously occupied by Dougy’s Desserts, which closed in September 2024 and was later put on the market. The venue, located opposite the Mercure Hotel, is now serving a range of hot and cold drinks alongside breakfast options including French toast, toasties and pancakes. The team behind the café say they are excited to welcome customers and begin a […]

today18/04/2026 51

News

Home Bargains plan for Glencairn Retail Park Kilmarnock

Plans have been submitted to build a new Home Bargains store at Glencairn Retail Park in Kilmarnock. The proposal outlines a large retail unit with a garden centre, along with parking for 135 vehicles and improved pedestrian access. If approved by East Ayrshire Council, the development is expected to create around 50 jobs and will become the third Home Bargains location in Kilmarnock. The company has also confirmed it intends to keep its existing stores at Burns Mall and Armour […]

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