Dedicated NHS porter bids farewell

A much-loved member of NHS Ayrshire and Arran has retired after dedicating 36 years to the health service. Duncan has brought his career at Ayrshire Central Hospital in Irvine and Ayrshire Maternity Unit in Kilmarnock to a close. Colleagues from the Women and Children’s Service described him as much more than a porter, remembering his cheerful greetings, songs, harmonica playing and the calm reassurance he brought during emergencies. They thanked him for his professionalism, friendship and compassion, wishing him a […]

03/08/2026 31

News

Top Ayrshire castles listed by TripAdvisor

Ayrshire is home to some of Scotland’s most impressive castles, with five local landmarks highlighted among the region’s best according to TripAdvisor. The list features Culzean Castle and Country Park, Dean Castle Country Park, Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre, Kelburn Castle & Estate, and Dunure Castle. Together they offer everything from medieval history and dramatic coastal views to woodland walks, family attractions and unique architecture. The selection showcases the rich heritage and scenic beauty that continues to attract visitors from […]

03/08/2026 23

News

Free prostate cancer testing in Irvine

An Ayrshire engineering firm say they are delighted after partnering with a Scottish healthcare campaign, in a movement to make a "significant difference". Irvine-based Booth Welsh has teamed up with Scottish Prostate Cancer Initiative to bring free PSA testing for men aged 40 and over to their Head Office on Monday 24 August. The event will provide 350 free tests for their local communities in a mission to tackle the "most commonly diagnosed" cancer in males. A spokesperson from Booth […]

31/07/2026 483

News

Stewarton Ladies face Shetland cup trip

Stewarton Annick Ladies are facing an 800-mile round trip for their first Scottish Cup tie, with the journey expected to cost more than £14,000. The East Ayrshire club were drawn away to Shetland Women in the first preliminary round, with the match scheduled for Sunday, August 9. A chartered flight for 19 people has been estimated at just over £14,500, with limited availability adding to the logistical challenge. Stewarton Annick Ladies are seeking sponsorship, financial support, travel assistance or contacts […]

31/07/2026 34

News

Arran ferry in Inverclyde work move

Arran’s new ferry has left the Ferguson Marine shipyard in Inverclyde and been moved to Inchgreen in Greenock for final fitting-out work. Sub-contractors will complete the remaining work of the MV Glen Rosa including installation of the vessel’s liquefied natural gas propulsion system. Sea trials are expected to begin in the autumn, with the ferry currently expected to be handed over to Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd by the end of the year. MV Glen Rosa and sister ship MV Glen […]

31/07/2026 24

News

Prestfest weekend buzz builds

Prestfest Music Festival is taking place from Friday, July 31 to Sunday, August 2, with a weekend of free music across venues in Prestwick. The line-up includes performances at the likes of The BUF, The Central, Gracie O’Mally’s and VICS, alongside events at Boydfield Gardens. Acts appearing across the weekend include The Working Dogs, Guns MacRoses, Natasha Tee, Louise Coulter and many more. The Broadway in Prestwick is also hosting a cinema experience featuring interviews and acoustic performances, with tickets […]

31/07/2026 77

News

Firth of Clyde swim for charity

A charity swim across the Firth of Clyde is taking place on Saturday, September 5, with participants swimming from Cumbrae to Largs to raise money and awareness for Sir Jackie Stewart’s Race Against Dementia. Swimmers will gather at Cairnie’s Quay from 11am for registration, followed by a safety briefing at 11.30am. They will then take the 12.30pm ferry to Millport before the swim begins at 1pm from the former Cumbrae Watersports Centre. The crossing is expected to take between 30 […]

30/07/2026 42

News

Ayrshire parks and spaces award recognition

Eight parks and green spaces in South Ayrshire have been recognised with 2026 Green Flag Awards for meeting national standards for well-managed, clean and safe outdoor spaces. The winners include Ayr Cemetery, Belleisle Park, Rozelle Park, Masonhill Crematorium, and Orchard Gardens. The awards are administered in Scotland by Keep Scotland Beautiful, which says the recognition highlights the work of councils, community groups and other organisations in providing quality outdoor spaces. There are 92 Green Flag winners across Scotland this year, […]

30/07/2026 25

News

Killie two-way traffic set for consultation

Residents, businesses and visitors are being invited to comment on proposals aimed at changing traffic arrangements through Kilmarnock town centre. Ayrshire Roads Alliance, working with East Ayrshire Council, Ayrshire 360 and Sweco, is consulting on plans that include reopening Sturrock Street to two-way traffic. Changes are also proposed for Green Street and High Street, as part of wider plans to improve connections around the town centre. The online consultation closes at 11.59pm on Thursday, August 6, with feedback expected to […]

30/07/2026 25