Issue 061

This is the time of year when we start to get out and about again and appreciate anew the wonder of the natural beauty that we are blessed with in Ayrshire.

The Museum of Ayrshire Country Life and Costume is housed in an historic grain mill constructed in 1622 on the banks of the River Garnock.

“From a young age I was very much aware of climate change, and the effect that human activity was having on the environment”

One of Scotland’s largest award nights – the prestigious annual Ayrshire Business Awards – has officially opened for entries.

Ayrshire Chamber is delighted to announce the launch of its new and updated training programme for 2025.

Running a business can sometimes feel like climbing a mountain without a map. There’s no signpost that tells you exactly what to do next.

When we talk about sustainability, most people think of the planet, and rightly so. But what about your personal sustainability?

Kevin Johnston is the Senior Head Greenkeeper at Belleisle Park Golf Course in Ayr, one of Britain’s finest public parkland courses, owned and operated by South Ayrshire Council.

It’s fair to say, Hurlford United is not having its best season. At the time of writing, the team is sitting precariously near the bottom of the West of Scotland Football League Premier Division.

We asked the Ayr-based golf historian and author of Forgotten Greens, Harry Ward, to join us in writing a series of articles featuring the different aspects of golf in Ayrshire.

I cannot think of any other way of putting it. I wish I could. Another form of words? No. There’s no two ways about it. It’s best to be totally honest. So here we go…

I’ve laced my walking boots tight, tucked a chilled water bottle into my backpack and slung my camera bag securely across my body. Sorted. It’s a mild and bright May morning – the perfect day for a good walk.

When Chris Saunders visited the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick, he had no idea how it would impact the next twelve months of his life.

Thirty years ago, concerned by the decline in Arran’s marine habitats, divers Howard Wood and Don MacNeish established the Community of Arran Seabed Trust, a community-led marine conservation charity.

It began with a missed call. On Monday 25th November at 4.30pm, Jim English (the man behind Kay’s Curling) rang. I quickly answered to ask if I could return his call the next morning. He agreed without hesitation.

There’s something about a walled garden. They prompt images of beautiful blooms, orderly beds and an element of history, maybe even an ornate statue or two.

When Peter Black was retiring, there was only ever going to be one destination

When the lovely new owners at The Fenwick Hotel, Robin and Jaspreet Bava, invited me along for their Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea, I didn’t need much convincing. Tea, cake, and good company? Yes please!

I’m all for trying something different. Whichever cliché you choose to use – step out of your comfort zone, broaden your horizons, embrace the challenge – it does you good to vary your routine, no matter how minor that variation may be.

Have you ever noticed how much calmer and happier you feel when you’re out and about near water? It might be a stroll along the beach, a picnic by the loch or a cycle along the river: there’s just something about the water…

It was around 2001. I was enjoying a coffee outside a well-known, American-based fast-food takeaway, renowned across the world (then and now) for doing its best for the environment, when an individual, no older than 15, ate his burger and chips and then threw the packaging on the floor.

From acrylic paint to zips, there’s a whole alphabet of items that can be donated and used by others across Ayrshire.

Ayrshire has long been a place which has attracted families, businesses, retirees and tourists looking to make the most of the idyllic land and seascapes, the rich history, a wealth of sport and leisure opportunities, and the bustling communities that offer excellent transport links to the rest of the country.

South Ayrshire has it all – miles of dramatic coastlines, a vibrant cultural heritage, golf courses, a university recognised internationally for world-leading research, and a proactive Health & Social Care partnership currently playing a key role, in conjunction with Voluntary Action South Ayrshire (VASA)

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