Tractor rally makes return to Ayr

The Ayrshire Vintage Tractor and Machinery Club will return to Ayr next month for its annual rally, bringing a full day of nostalgia and family entertainment to the area. The 41st Ayrshire Vintage Tractor and Machinery Club Rally takes place at Whitefordhill Agri-Centre on the A70 outside Ayr on July 19. This year’s event will celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Ferguson TE20 tractor, the 70th anniversary of the Ferguson FE35 and 50 years of the Q-Cab. Visitors can enjoy […]

25/06/2026 116

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Scotland progress hopes hang by thread

Scotland supporters are facing an anxious wait after the national team’s 3-0 defeat to Brazil at the World Cup in Miami. The loss leaves Scotland’s hopes of reaching the knockout stages hanging in the balance, with qualification now dependent on results elsewhere in the final group matches this weekend. Supporters following the team in Florida described a disappointing performance but remain hopeful that Scotland can still progress as one of the best third-placed teams. Members of the Tartan Army over […]

25/06/2026 23

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Ayrshire venues prepare for Brazil thrill tonight

Venues in Ayrshire are gearing up to welcome punters for Scotland's vital World Cup encounter against Brazil tonight. Steve Clarke's men are only a win or a point away from progressing beyond the group stage for the first time against the four-time world champions. Businesses in the region are anticipating streams of the Tartan Army watching from home as they prepare to witness a piece of Scottish footballing history unfold. Venues such as First Edition in Kilmarnock along with Vic […]

24/06/2026 65

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Heart pilot praised by Kilbirnie man

A man has credited a pioneering NHS Ayrshire & Arran heart failure service with saving his life after he received a diagnosis and treatment within days of referral. William Kennedy from Kilbirnie had been suffering from worsening breathlessness and swelling in his legs before being referred to the BEAT to TREAT pilot service based at Kilmarnock Community Hub. After attending an appointment around 10 days later, tests confirmed heart failure and he was admitted to hospital for treatment the same […]

24/06/2026 17

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Opticians make children eye health plea

Parents across Ayr are being encouraged to prioritise their children’s eye health during Child Vision Awareness Month. The team at Specsavers Ayr is highlighting the importance of regular eye examinations, reminding families that NHS eye tests are free for all children. According to the store, many vision problems can develop without obvious signs, meaning children may not realise struggles with their eyesight. Optometrist and store director Peter Carson said regular eye tests are an important part of supporting a child’s […]

24/06/2026 13

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Archaeologists make golf course change claim

Plans to alter part of the course at Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club have prompted archaeologists to call for additional monitoring before work begins. The club has applied to North Ayrshire Council for permission to reroute holes on the course during improvement works. However, the West of Scotland Archaeology Service says the proposed development area may contain significant historical remains. Archaeologists believe the site could be linked to Bronze Age cremation burials discovered in the area during the 1840s. They have […]

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Primary school marks 50 year celebrations

Ochiltree Primary School has celebrated 50 years in its current building with a week-long programme of events involving pupils, staff, former students, families and members of the wider community. Activities began on Monday, June 15 including a community art and photography competition, musical performances, talks from former pupils, archaeological sessions and a historical walking treasure hunt organised by the parent council on Tuesday, June 16. The celebrations concluded on Saturday, June 20 with a family fun day featuring a bouncy […]

24/06/2026 32

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Dolphin House marks 25-year milestone

Dolphin House at Culzean Castle and Country Park is celebrating 25 years of outdoor learning, marking a major milestone for a facility that has supported generations of young people across South Ayrshire. Since opening in 2001, the South Ayrshire Council-run centre has welcomed more than 250,000 young people and continues to provide residential and day programmes focused on learning, wellbeing and personal development. The centre also supports thousands of adults through training opportunities, community group visits and public events. Originally […]

24/06/2026 24

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Hospice dog show returns

The Ayrshire Hospice Waggy Tail Walk and Dog Show will return to Eglinton Park in Irvine on Sunday, August 9, 2026, bringing together dog lovers from across the region. The event will run from 10.30am until 2.30pm and will feature a popular dog show with categories including Kids’ Best Friend, Coolest Puppy, Best Rescue and Golden Oldie. The event will also include a sponsored 5km Waggy Tail Walk through Eglinton Country Park, led by the Ayrshire Hospice 2026 Ambassadog. Funds […]

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