matt.finlay@nowayrshireradio.co.uk

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News

Cumnock dad Steven Kelly raises £2,200 for Diabetes UK

A Cumnock father has completed a 96-mile trek along the West Highland Way to raise money for Diabetes UK, a cause close to his family. Steven Kelly, joined by his son Lynden and friend Ian Blackwood, took on the challenge in support of his daughter Nevaeh, who was diagnosed with type one diabetes. The group has raised more than £2,200 so far, with donations continuing to come in. Steven described the journey as challenging but rewarding, saying the effort was […]

today20/04/2026 27

News

Kap Vert wins big at Ayr Racecourse National

Ayr Racecourse hosted a dramatic day of racing as Kap Vert claimed victory in the Coral Scottish Grand National at odds of 20/1. The outsider, ridden by Sean Houlihan and trained by Philip Hobbs and Johnson White, handled the heavy ground best to win by a length and a half. Only six of the 16 runners managed to finish the race due to tough conditions. Git Maker came home second, while race favourite Kim Roque finished third. Earlier on the […]

today19/04/2026 24

News

Pictish Trail plays Harbour Arts Centre Irvine April 24

Scottish musician The Pictish Trail is set to perform at Irvine’s Harbour Arts Centre on Friday, April 24, as part of the Freckfest programme. The artist, whose real name is Johnny Lynch, will appear with a full band following the release of his latest album, Life Slime. Known for blending indie folk with electronica, The Pictish Trail has built a strong following since releasing his debut album on Fence Records in 2008. He will be joined on the night by […]

today19/04/2026 35

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 […]

today19/04/2026 35

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 […]

today19/04/2026 18

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 […]

today19/04/2026 29

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 25

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.

today18/04/2026 27

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.

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