Study warns longer hay fever season

Hay fever sufferers in Ayrshire and across the UK may face longer periods of symptoms, according to new research linking climate change to extended pollen seasons. A study published in The Lancet Public Health found that pollen seasons are now lasting up to two weeks longer than they did in the 1990s. The research highlights earlier flowering of allergenic trees such as birch and alder, increasing exposure to pollen. Experts say the findings underline the growing impact of climate change […]

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Lochgreen House Hotel wins Scottish spa award again

Lochgreen House Hotel in Troon has once again been recognised at the Scottish Beauty Industry Awards, with its spa team named Spa of the Year for the second consecutive year. The award highlights the team’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality treatments and customer care. Staff at the hotel say they are proud to receive the accolade again and have thanked their loyal clients for their ongoing support. The recognition further strengthens Lochgreen’s reputation as one of Ayrshire’s leading destinations for […]

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Cairn Table Hill Race returns July 15

The Cairn Table Hill Race is set to return on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, offering runners a challenging evening event in the Ayrshire hills. Taking place from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, the race covers a demanding 7.2 kilometre route over rough and unmarked terrain. Organisers have stressed that this is a true hill race, requiring participants to be well-prepared and self-reliant. There will be no route markings or on-course support, and runners must enter in advance, with no sign-ups available on […]

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Stagecoach report shows Ayrshire youth ditching cars

Young people across Ayrshire are increasingly changing how they travel as rising fuel costs continue to impact everyday life. Research from Stagecoach shows that 55 per cent of young people in Scotland have already adjusted their commuting habits, with many turning to bus travel as a more affordable alternative. The under-22s free bus travel scheme is playing a key role in this shift, allowing young people to stay connected to work, education and social activities without the cost of running […]

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Openreach rollout brings full fibre boost to Irvine

Thousands of homes and businesses across Irvine can now access faster broadband following a £4.8 million investment by Openreach. The rollout of Full Fibre technology means around 80 per cent of properties in the town are now able to upgrade to more reliable, high-speed connections. Despite the availability, many residents have yet to make the switch. Openreach is encouraging households and businesses to check their eligibility and contact their chosen provider, highlighting the benefits for busy homes and those working […]

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Sloan to reach managerial milestone

Auchinleck Talbot manager Tommy Sloan is to complete his 1000th game in charge at a West of Scotland Premier Division clash last night. The former Queen of the South and Stranraer striker, known affectionately as "Tucker", reaches the managerial milestone for the East Ayrshire club on Wednesday night when they face Renfrew at New Western Park. The Irvine-born boss, who had playing and coaching stints at Ayr United and Kilmarnock, takes to the dugout for this landmark having previously won […]

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Intrigue Kilwinning owner Seonaid Gourlay to step down

The owner of Intrigue in Kilwinning has confirmed she is stepping away after putting the business up for sale earlier this year. The gift shop, located just off Main Street, was listed in early March with a leasehold asking price of £35,000 as part of retirement plans. Seonaid Gourlay, who has run the shop for 13 years, shared a message thanking customers for their support over the years. Intrigue, which first opened in 1983 under Aileen Paterson, is now being […]

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The Northern Way Irvine to add music and films

Changes have been approved for The Northern Way bar on Irvine High Street following a successful application to North Ayrshire Council. Owners Melli Ltd, part of Amber Taverns, requested a variation to the premises licence. The updated licence will see the removal of restaurant facilities, with recorded music and films introduced instead. The venue will also be permitted to host private functions, including parties and themed events, outwith normal operating hours, with these expected to take place in the upstairs […]

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North Ayrshire pubs seek late licences for World Cup

Pubs, bars and clubs across North Ayrshire are preparing for the upcoming World Cup, with 57 venues applying for late licences to show matches. The figures were confirmed by the council’s licensing board on Monday, April 20. A total of 336 games could be shown across the venues, with applications currently being processed and final decisions expected within three to four weeks. Scotland’s group stage fixtures include matches on June 14 at 2am, June 19 at 11pm, and June 24 […]

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