Ayrshire Scotland Business News

By: Iain Ferguson

FINE weather, glamour, glitz and top music are all forecast to boost Scottish Sun Raceday at Ayr Racecourse on Saturday.

It is Ayr’s first major summer meeting of the year, and 19 year-old Miss Scotland Ellie McKeating will be making an appearance to present the prizes to the winning owners and trainers in her own race, The Scottish Sun Miss Scotland Handicap which is run at 4.15pm.

A crowd of more than 6,000 is expected at the track on the day that sees the launch of Ayr’s famous ladies competition which culminates in William Hill Ladies Day Final on Friday 19 September.

This year’s star prizes are a fabulous Vauxhall Adam Glam 1.4, courtesy of Kerr & Smith, with the runner-up jetting off on a fabulous holiday for two to Dubai courtesy of Stewart Travel and third prize beauty treatments from Coast Clinic.

There will be a total of 27 ladies in the final and each will draw the name of a horse running in the William Hill Ayr Bronze Cup that day with the lucky lady who picks the winner driving off in the car.

Entertainment after racing is as always top class with a highly rated band The Gifted - one of the south of England's top party bands - appearing in the Horseshoe Bar while West FM DJ Colin McArdle will entertain in the Ayrshire Suite.

With fine weather likely to continue through until the weekend the champagne lawns at the track are set to be full of people enjoying a superb day out. First race is at 1.50pm with gates open at 11.50pm and the fun after racing running until approximately 8.30pm.

The seven race card features the £40,000 Scottish Sun/EBF Land O’ Burns Fillies Stakes.

This Listed Race over the straight five furlongs has produced some good winners over the years, with Newmarket raiders picking up the spoils in recent times.

Look for a strong field here with an Irish raider or two likely to be in the field alongside horses from top northern and southern yards.

There is a top supporting card with two £25,000 mile handicaps - the Scottish Sun On Sunday Handicap one for three year-olds and the Slaters Handicap for four year-olds and upwards.

The first race, The British Stallion Studs EBF/Sunsport maiden over six furlongs due off at 1.50pm.

For more information or to book tickets call 01292 264189 or go online at

www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk

For further information please contact Iain Ferguson on 01292 294972 or 07795 565691.

Ayr Racecourse and the associated Western House Hotel are Founder Members of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

South Ayrshire Council Leader, Councillor Bill McIntosh, has welcomed the Deputy First Minister’s announcement that Prestwick Airport will now operate under public ownership on a commercial basis and will benefit from £10 million investment from the Scottish Government.

Councillor McIntosh (pictured above) said the news that the airport can be returned to commercial viability supported the Council’s belief in the airport as a vital economic asset for south-west Scotland.

He added: “We now have a vision of a positive and successful future for Prestwick Airport and we are fully committed to supporting the work being undertaken by partners and stakeholders to achieve the ambitions we all have for this vital transport hub.

“The airport is essential to the local and national economy, with 1,400 people employed there and a further 3,200 jobs linked to the site. We completely agree that there is no overnight fix to get the airport to where it needs to be, but this is clearly a very positive – and very welcome – step forward.

“This announcement marks the start of a renewed commercial focus for the airport, and getting the right people in post and having the right plans in place will be key elements for the business.

“On that basis, we do support the decision to retain the name, Glasgow Prestwick Airport, for the commercial market and in recognition of the long and dynamic history of the airport.

“We’ve always known that Prestwick is different from other airports, and we all want to see it performing as it should, which will help our people, businesses and economy achieve their full potential.

“In partnership with our colleagues in East and North Ayrshire Councils, we will continue to work closely with the Scottish Government and other stakeholders and ensure we play a full and active role in the development of the airport and the wider aerospace and engineering economy in Ayrshire.

“I’m confident that the vision of a bright future for Prestwick Airport is one that can – and will – be achieved, and I’ll be making sure this Council does everything in our power to make that happen.”

Earlier, Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon (pictured above) announced that Prestwick Airport is to receive nearly £10m of investment from the Scottish Government,.

The funding will go towards operating costs, a repairs backlog and to make improvements to the terminal building.

Ms Sturgeon rejected calls to rename it Robert Burns Airport, saying this could cause confusion.

The Scottish Government bought the airport for £1 last year amid fears it would be forced to close.

Ms Sturgeon told Holyrood’s Infrastructure Committee that the airport would be operated under public ownership “on a commercial basis”.

She said the Scottish Government investment would be made “in the form of loan funding”.

She added that there was “no quick fix solution for Prestwick” and the airport may not be profitable for several years.

The airport had a pre-tax loss of £9.77m in its final full year under previous owners Infratil.

Ms Sturgeon is also the Scottish Government’s Infrastructure, Investment and Cities Secretary.

She said the airport would operate as a public corporation on a commercial basis at arms’ length from government.

She added that £5.5m had been provided already since acquisition. and the Scottish Government would be required “to provide a further £3m in operating support”.

There will be nearly £7m in capital investment - £4.5m for repairs and £2.4m to make improvements to the terminal building, including refurbishment of the duty-free area.

Lack of investment

Ms Sturgeon argued that Prestwick had suffered from a lack of investment and there was a “backlog of essential maintenance”.

The committee evidence session came after finance executive Romain Py completed a three-month review of the airport, including options for ownership, on behalf of the Scottish Government.

Ms Sturgeon described Prestwick as a “non-typical airport”, with only about half of its revenue dependant on passenger traffic.

She suggested that future revenue could come from freight and retail development.

The airport's executive directors would be tasked with developing commercial opportunities.

A business plan would include an assessment of a reduced Ryanair schedule for summer 2014 and passenger numbers will be monitored.

Ms Sturgeon ruled out renaming the airport after Robert Burns. A petition lodged with the Scottish Parliament by The Robert Burns World Federation earlier this year had called for a name change, with supporters arguing it would boost tourism.

The Deputy First Minister told the committee: “On balance I have concluded there are strong commercial reasons for retaining the Glasgow Prestwick airport name.”

She acknowledged the decision would disappoint some local people but the airport had to be marketed internationally.

She did not rule out a “Burns-related theme” for the airport.

Leading independent Scottish property consultancy CKD Galbraith is offering for sale Hareshaw Cottage, a delightful country cottage pleasantly situated amidst its own well tended gardens of approximately 0.34 acres.

The property lies just a couple of miles from the M77 and is just three miles from the popular town of Stewarton – as such it is an ideal home for commuters.

The property has the appearance and charm of a traditional country cottage yet has a modern level of appointment and bright, well-proportioned rooms.

The more recent addition of a sun room provides additional living space and is a lovely room overlooking the gardens.The lounge is a spacious room with a log burning stove and there is an adjacent dining room.

The kitchen is fitted with a range of wall and floor units and a little porch which leads out to the gardens is ideal for storing muddy boots.

Three double bedrooms and a bathroom complete the accommodation. The master bedroom has an en suite shower room.

The gardens of Hareshaw Cottage surround the house and are fully enclosed. A level lawn is bordered by a variety of trees and shrubs and there is ample parking as well as a double garage.

Offers Over £270,000 are being sought.

PDF available on www.ckdgalbraith.co.uk

CKD Galbraith

7 Killoch Place

Ayr KA7 2EA

Ayrshire, Scotland

Tel: 01292 268181

Fax: 01292 292300

E-mail: ayr@ckdgalbraith.co.uk

Web: www.ckdgalbraith.co.uk

CKD Galbraith’s Ayr Office is a Founder Member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

By: Iain Ferguson

NEWMARKET raiders grabbed the spoils at Ayr Racecourse on Saturday, winning no fewer than four of the seven races.

Set against a backdrop of beautiful sunshine and attended by a crowd of almost 6,500 it was a fantastic afternoon’s racing, with the highlight the £40,000 Land O’Burns Fillies Stakes, a Listed race over the minimum five furlong trip.

The winner was Hay Chewed (17/2) (pictured above in the green and white colours) held up under Tom Eaves hand, then hitting the front over a furlong out and staying on well to win by a length from the 16/1 chance Inyordsreams.

This Newmarket winner was trained by Conrad Allen and should win again in the not too distant future.

Another southern trainer Willie Haggas saddled Squats (8/1), to win the opening maiden under Liam Jones, while Roger Varian had his first ever Ayr winner with the well-backed Pretzel (10/11 fav) in the mile handicap under a very confident Freddie Tylicki. The final Newmarket winner was the track Alan Bailey trained Strictly Silver (4/1) who won the Arnold Clark Handicap.

The only Scottish-trained success came via Spirit of Alsace in the final race, a six furlong handicap.

Trained by Jim Goldie and ridden by apprentice Jack Garritty, the 7/1 shot showed terrific battling qualities to get up and beat Signore Piccolo by half a length.

The Reluctant Suitors syndicate includes Gordon Thom of New Hall Stud in Coylton, who will no doubt be planning a career as a brood mare for the winning horse.

Ayr’s next meeting is the Federation of Small Businesses Family Day on Sunday 6 July. For more information or to book tickets call 01292 264179 or go online at www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk

For further information please contact Iain Ferguson on 01292 294972 or 07795 565691.

Ayr Racecourse and the associated Western House Hotel are Founder Members of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

A vibrant new community that will create hundreds of new homes, businesses and jobs – as well as an annual boost of around £40 million to the Ayrshire economy – was unanimously approved by South Ayrshire Council this week for development in Ayr.

The mixed use development at Corton in Ayr – which is subject to referral and approval by the Scottish Government – will provide an attractive and distinctive place for people to live, work and enjoy their leisure time as part of a sustainable new community.

The approved development, from applicant LXB RP (Ayr 1) Ltd, includes 750 new homes – 188 of which will be affordable housing; a business park with offices, business space and workshops; a Sainsbury’s supermarket; a neighbourhood shopping centre; a new hotel; a petrol station; a primary school; community facilities and parkland; walking, cycling and safe vehicle routes; and a park and ride facility.

Corton is designed to be well connected to Ayr with a high quality bridge over the A77, and safe walking and cycling routes from Ayr seafront to Ayr hospital, providing seamless links between the new community and the rest of the town.

It will provide around 2,700 construction jobs over the 10 year development of the site, which is expected to get underway early next year. And the completed development will create around 1,000 new jobs for the local area.

Councillor Bill McIntosh, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: “The approval of this major planning application is the first step towards delivering the right kind of development in the right way within the south-east Ayr area and that has always been our priority.

“The plans lay the groundwork for a dynamic, inclusive and accessible community that will significantly enhance this part of the town, creating jobs, providing investment, constructing affordable homes and delivering the infrastructure improvements required to make such a development work.

“We have always had high ambitions for the development of the wider south-east Ayr area and Corton is the first step on the route to achieving exactly that. It’s a vital development that will ensure South Ayrshire is open for business and investment and can readily welcome new residents and families.

“Its potential to boost our economy is not just of local importance – but of national significance – and establishes a very firm base for solid economic growth over the next 20-30 years.

“Obviously the application is now subject to scrutiny by Scottish Ministers, but I am confident that they too will see the benefits of such a development and that it won’t be too long before Corton stops being just an ideal and starts becoming a reality for the people and businesses of South Ayrshire.”

The planning application is available CLICK HERE

South Ayrshire Council is a Founder Member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

First Minister performs sod-cutting and announces figures demonstrating £830m+ college investment

First Minister Alex Salmond has today (Wednesday, 25 June) visited the construction site of the new £53 million Ayrshire College Kilmarnock Campus to formally mark the start of the redevelopment.

The First Minister and College Principal Heather Dunk OBE were joined by the first apprentice to be employed, Rachel Kyle – also a student of the college – for a sod-cutting ceremony on the site of the former Diageo bottling plant.

Ayrshire College’s Kilmarnock Campus NPD (Non-Profit Distributing) support of £53 million reached financial close earlier this month, bringing the total NPD funding for Scotland’s college estate to £330 million. The visit comes as the First Minister announces that the Scottish Government has invested over £500 million in capital funding for Scotland’s college estate from 2007-2013, over and above the £330 million NPD investment.

The new building will create a stimulating learning environment that is ‘welcoming, accessible and flexible’. It will include a health and wellbeing centre, hair and beauty salon, a learning resource centre as well as sector leading facilities for sport and science, technology and engineering.

At the sod-cutting ceremony on-site, the First Minister said: “Ayrshire College’s new £53m Kilmarnock Campus will play a huge part in the on-going regeneration of the town. Being built on the former Diageo site, it will deliver state of the art learning facilities, as well as create more than 170 construction jobs, apprenticeship places – like Rachel Kyle, whom I met today – and numerous work placement and training opportunities.

“Ayrshire College Kilmarnock Campus is the third college benefiting from a combined total of £330 million NPD funding, with work also underway at both the £228m City of Glasgow College campus and the £52m Inverness College campus. Diggers are already on site and I’m sure staff and students are eager to start enjoying their new state-of-the-art campus when it opens in 2016.

“This is the latest in a long line of investments in Scotland’s college estate. I’m delighted to announce that we are supporting investment of over £830 million between capital and NPD supported projects since 2007 to ensure we deliver a first rate education and that Scotland’s young people have access to state of the art facilities. These facilities will also help us to develop a truly world class vocational education system in line with Sir Ian Wood's recommendations on the development of Scotland's young workforce.

“Our investment in Scotland’s infrastructure as a whole – including schools, hospitals and roads - is set to top more than £8 billion over the next two years, supporting around 50,000 full time equivalent jobs across the Scottish economy.”

Rachel Kyle is the first apprentice to be employed through the construction project. Rachel said: "My new job is exciting, I am grateful to be a part of this project and look forward to the future. It will be a learning curve but what a place to learn on such a massive commercial project. Work ethic is changing and a lot more women are gaining employment within the construction industry.

“Once I finish my apprenticeship and degree I would like to stay with McLaughlin and Harvey with hope to become an Assistant Site Manager, working on more projects to gain experience. I would love to move on to be a Manager and take on my own site with a view to working locally in Ayrshire.

“Do not let stereotypes put you off: 11 or 12% of construction workforce are women – let’s make this bigger. If you have the drive and the enthusiasm in construction then go for it – it’s the best job in my eyes.”

Ayrshire College Principal Heather Dunk OBE said: “This is a historic day for Ayrshire and we are delighted to be moving forward with this significant investment for the young people of our community in Ayrshire.”

For more information on Ayrshire College’s new Kilmarnock Campus, CLICK HERE

College NPD projects are part of the £2.5bn pipeline of projects to be delivered by NPD as announced in the Scottish Government’s 2011-12 budget. NPD ensures that private sector returns are capped, that there is no dividend bearing equity and any surplus is directed in favour of the public sector. For more information on NPD schemesCLICK HERE

Pupils from South Ayrshire secondary schools have taken part in a mock council debate, spending the day as local elected representatives as they met in session at Council headquarters in Ayr.

[Pictured: Provost Helen Moonie, centre left, is pictured with school pupils who took part in the mock council sessions. Also pictured are Councillor John McDowall, right, Councillor Margaret Toner, far right and Wynne Carlaw, South Ayrshire Council’s Democratic Governance Manager.]

The pupils debated four motions in accordance with South Ayrshire Council’s standing orders and a lively debate was enjoyed as amendments were tabled and discussed in front of an audience of other local councillors and teachers.

The motions tabled all related to the United Nations Convention on the rights of the child and were:

• Young People in Scotland have the right to lead an active and healthy life

• Young people in Scotland should have the right to unrestricted internet access for educational purposes

• Young people in Scotland should not be recruited by the Armed Forces until they reach the age of 18 years

• Young people in Scotland should have the right to vote at 16 years.

Hosting the event, Provost Helen Moonie said: “Getting young people to assume the role of councillors and present, debate and discuss motions in a live chamber setting is a fantastic way of introducing them to the excitement of politics, as well as sharpening their debating skills.

“I was amazed by how passionately and articulately the young people took to their task and learned a great deal about some of their own views in the process.

“Young people represent the future of our local area and their tastes, interests and ideas will have a significant influence for the next generation and beyond.”

Daisy Bradshaw from Girvan Academy who presented the motion ‘Young people in Scotland should have the right to unrestricted internet access for educational purposes’ added: “I really enjoyed being in County Hall in front of other real councillors and the process of doing business was intriguing.”

Keir Anderson of Kyle Academy presented the motion that ‘Young people in Scotland should not be recruited by the Armed Forces until they reach the age of 18’ agreed adding: “This was an excellent experience and actually debating live in a real council chamber, with Provost Moonie overseeing us was brilliant! I’d love to do it again and certainly won’t rule out a career in politics!”

Provost Moonie concluded the day with a vote of thanks to all participants and added: “This has been a superb event and I’ve really been impressed with the quality of debate.

“The motions were challenging and well argued, and the amendments were equally well presented.

“I hope this exercise has given our young people a better insight on how to present their views and ideas and how local democracy might work for them.

“And who knows - maybe in the near future we might be welcoming some of them back as democratically elected representatives for their own electoral ward.”

South Ayrshire Council is a Founder Member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

A Modern Apprentice, a homecare worker, a janitor, an education officer and an innovative project to help pupils gain work experience are all winners in South Ayrshire Council’s ‘Outstanding People Awards’ 2014.

The awards recognise those members of staff who go the extra mile to deliver a truly outstanding service to customers and colleagues throughout South Ayrshire.

This year more than 150 council employees were nominated for an award by members of the public and colleagues, in five service categories which were: Service Excellence, Innovation, Sustainability, Equalities in Action and Inspirational Young Employee.

All nominees won bronze certificates of achievement. A judging panel then looked at all submissions and shortlisted 15 finalists – each receiving a silver award – from which the final five winners were selected.

Council Leader Councillor Bill McIntosh said: “Selecting the winners was a difficult task, as each of the fifteen finalists had shown an outstanding commitment to the Council and the people of South Ayrshire.

“Recognition of how that service is delivered is something I am passionate about – particularly in these challenging times when we all have to do more with less and our Outstanding People Awards let us do exactly that.

“All fifteen nominees were winners in that regard and I’m delighted we were able to recognise and reward their commitment and dedication to public service.”

South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie added: “What our employees do on a daily basis really matters to our people and communities – that’s something I see for myself regularly.

“The awards let us celebrate and show our appreciation for these exceptional people, who have consistently surpassed the expectations of their role at the Council – and that really is something we can all be proud of.”

The winners were:

Service Excellence

Finalists: Reckless Driving Wrecks Lives, Marian McAllister and The Council’s Young Scot Team

Winner: Marian McAllister (pictured above receiving her award) – a member of the Council’s Homecare Team, nominated for her commitment, compassion and willingness to always go the extra mile to enhance the lives of her clients

Innovation

Finalists: Colette McGarva, Barassie Nursery staff and Work Out!

Winner: Work Out! – Work Out! addresses the need to engage young people in the latter stages of school who are at risk of disengaging and are less likely to reach a positive and sustained destination in life, by providing comprehensive vocational training and experience across a range of work sectors.

Equalities in Action

Finalists: Lynn Crossan, Mary Platt and Fiona Ross

Winner: Lynn Crossan – In her role as Quality Improvement Officer, Lynn has played a key role in promoting equalities within our schools. From ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ to ‘The LGBT Youth Awards’, she always has a valuable contribution to make.

(Lynn Crossan’s award was collected by Frank Cardle and there is no photograph for her.)

Sustainability

Finalists: Deborah Creedy, Murray Blackwood and Ayr Town Centre Heritage Initiative

Winner: Murray Blackwood (pictured above receiving his award)). Murray has demonstrated the real benefits that can be made through recycling and other energy saving measures in schools. As School Janitor at St. Ninian’s Primary, he has taken recycling to a new level and made the school a shining example to others.

Inspirational Young Employee

Finalists: Shaunagh McCutcheon, Craig Currie and Amy Logan

Winner: Shaunagh McCutcheon (pictured above receiving her award). Shaunagh is a Modern Apprentice in Business Administration working at Throughcare in Holmston House. She is committed and enthusiastic toward her Modern Apprenticeship and always smiling and happy to help clients. She demonstrated exceptional leadership and organisational skills during the Modern Apprentice Challenge, in which she took a leading role.

Eileen Howat, South Ayrshire Council’s Chief Executive concluded: “I’d like to offer my sincere congratulations to all the nominees, finalists and to the winners.

“Of course, the real winners in this process are our service users, customers and communities who benefit each and every day from the care and attention our employees take to deliver the best possible services at all times.”

Also invited to the awards ceremony were nine Modern Apprentices who, while working and gaining valuable practical experience have also been studying. They all received certificates of achievement and were:

Craig McBlain

Conor Stapley

Fraser Dunn

Scott Farr

Lindsay McCormick

Karen McGarvey

Laura Nicol

Danielle Warner

Michael Smith

In addition to the winners announced on the night, a raffle held during the event raised £373 for the Council’s charities: Ayr Housing Aid Centre, Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline, Gardening Leave, PDSA, Riverside Care and Share, RNLI (Troon and Girvan), SeAscape, South Ayrshire Women's Aid.

South Ayrshire Council is a Founder Member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

By: Iain Ferguson

LOVABLE children’s character Peppa Pig is coming to Ayr Racecourse - back by popular demand!

The cheeky little piggy will be at Ayr Racecourse’s Family Fun Day on Sunday 6 July, and will be making five appearances at intervals throughout the day, so come along to see her and don’t forget to bring your camera!

Plus there will be many more attractions for the family - and all children under the age of 18 go free if accompanied by an adult and all the Family Entertainment is also free.

Peppa Pig is sure to be a big hit with all the children, and additional attractions include the fantastic Bungee Trampolines, fun fair rides, mini quads, pony rides, face painting and glitter tattoos, sand art, Artmania, a bouncy castle, a superhero enclosure, a circus and magic show - and lots more including an equisizer for children to hone their jockey skills.

There will be free entry for current members of the Armed Forces and their families and also members of all Veterans Associations and Veterans Charities. Book online at ticketsfortroops.co.uk, direct with Ayr Racecourse or via your Veterans Association.

There are seven races scheduled with the first race due off at 2pm. Gates open at 12 noon.

For more information call 01292 264179 or go online at www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk

For further information please contact Iain Ferguson on 01292 294972 or 07795 565691.

Ayr Racecourse and the associated Western House Hotel are Founder Members of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

The sun was shining and a fabulous day was had by all as South Ayrshire came out in force to support the Queen’s Baton Relay and cheer on 107 inspirational batonbearers on Friday 20 June.

[Pictured: The Queen's Baton in Maybole.]

Starting in Ballantrae, the baton was welcomed to the sound of the bagpipes, played by piper Ian Fisher from the South Ayrshire Schools Pipe Band. It then got its first glimpse of the Ailsa Craig – from where the granite for the baton’s ‘gemstone’ was sourced – as seven batonbearers carried the baton through the village. To cheers and applause, the baton received a very warm welcome and ensured a successful start to the day.

It then moved on to Girvan where people lined the streets as the baton visited the first of the South Ayrshire towns on the relay route. Girvan provided a great opportunity for some iconic images of the baton with Ailsa Craig in the background and 13 batonbearers were carried along by the hugely supportive crowd.

Before leaving the town, the baton visited Girvan Community Hospital where it was welcomed to the sounds of the South Ayrshire Percussion Ensemble. The baton passed through the Rehabilitation Suite, where staff from the Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy teams led activities with primary 5 school children interacting with patients. It also saw pupils from Girvan Academy taking part in touch rugby, while Commonwealth Games mascot Clyde paid a surprise visit to the hospital to see the baton.

In Maybole, the baton started out with a private visit to Carrick Academy before being carried out of the school by pupil, batonbearer and world record racerunner, Kayleigh Haggo. Kayleigh was cheered on by hundreds of pupils as she got the baton relay underway in the town, where it was carried by a total of 11 batonbearers.

The baton then headed to Alloway where it was given a rapturous welcome by pupils and staff as it passed by Alloway Primary. Carried by a total of 11 batonbearers, the relay paused at Burns Cottage to pay its respects to the Bard before making its way in to Rozelle Park where around 300 pupils from South Ayrshire primaries participated in an Active Schools event, funded by EventScotland’s Legacy programme.

The final batonbearer at Rozelle was Scottish actress Katrina Bryan who is well known for playing Nina in the hit CBeebies series Nina and the Neurons. Other TV appearances include a recurring role in Taggart, Sea of Souls and Ancient Greece. Her theatre credits include My Romantic History and Death of a Salesman. Katrina took the baton on to the stage where it was welcomed by South Ayrshire Provost, Helen Moonie and Chief Executive of South Ayrshire Council, Eileen Howat. Clyde made another appearance at Rozelle where he proved to be a huge hit with the kids.

After a lunch visit to Queen Margaret Academy, the baton relay continued through four small villages, which were all packed with people eager to take part in such an exciting day – Mossblown, Tarbolton, Symington and Dundonald. Clyde made an impromptu stop in Mossblown, much to the delight of the gathered crowds.

The baton relay then moved into its longest stretch in South Ayrshire with 18 batonbearers carrying the baton through Troon, where crowds packed the streets and created a real buzz as the baton relay came to town.

The relay then stopped in briefly at Prestwick Airport where it was welcomed by airport staff and representatives from the aerospace and engineering industries before heading into Prestwick town centre.

Another long stretch for the relay, 17 batonbearers proudly carried the baton through Prestwick to the cheers and applause of local people and visitors, who made sure the Commonwealth spirit was going strong.

The final stretch of the relay took place in Ayr, where the baton was carried by the recently unveiled and newly-refurbished ‘pink buildings’ to the sound of bagpipes. It then made its way to Low Green where it was greeted by thousands of people for the Queen’s Baton Relay Celebration Event.

Featuring live music and entertainment, sports and activities, arts and circus workshops, the celebration event offered something for everyone – including the chance to see the final leg of the baton relay. The nine batonbearers in Ayr included former Scotland football manager, Craig Brown CBE as well as Olympian, Commonwealth athlete and European gold medallist, Brian Whittle.

The evening was rounded off with a very special performance on the live music stage from Braehead Primary’s primary 6 class who came runners-up in Creative Scotland’s Big Big Sing project. The primary six pupils wrote and recorded their song, ‘The Cheer Starts Here’, with the help of University of the West of Scotland colleagues and Songwriting and Performance students as part of the University’s Digital Commonwealth project, funded by the Big Lottery Fund.

South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie said: “What an amazing day the Queen’s Baton Relay had in South Ayrshire and a great big thank you to everyone who came out to show their support. From our smallest villages to our largest towns, South Ayrshire did itself proud and there was a festive atmosphere throughout the entire baton relay route, which was completely down to our people and communities who embraced the event wholeheartedly.

“It’s certainly one of the biggest events I’ve ever been involved in as Provost and it was a privilege to be part of the reception for the baton and our batonbearers. I wish the relay the very best of luck as it continues throughout Scotland and look forward to hearing Her Majesty The Queen's message to the Commonwealth – which is being carried within the baton – when it is read out at the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony on 23 July.”

Councillor Bill Grant, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, Tourism and Leisure, added: “The Queen’s Baton Relay was a fabulous day for South Ayrshire. From Ballantrae in the south to Barassie in the north – and through our towns and villages in between – the support from our residents and visitors was just incredible.

“My thanks to every single person who came out to cheer on the baton and help make this such a wonderful day for everyone involved. It was a very special day for a very special baton, and it certainly got a very special welcome here in South Ayrshire.”

A selection of photographs taken at this event can be viewed on the South Ayrshire Council website. CLICK HERE

South Ayrshire Council is a Founder Member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

Leading independent Scottish property consultancy CKD Galbraith is offering for sale Tallaminnoch, a charming country cottage nestled within the Galloway Forest Park and approximately 3 miles from the village of Straiton

The Galloway Forest Park is Britain’s largest forest park extending to some 300 square miles of dramatic untamed beauty and is affectionately known as “The Highlands of the Lowlands”.

The Stinchar Valley and waterfalls circuit walk as well as the Stinchar Bridge are just a mile or two away with excellent walking, fishing and cycling all on hand.

The area is home to a variety of birds and wildlife including red deer, otters and golden eagles, and for star gazers the area is just one of four Dark Sky Parks in the western world.

The cottage is mainly built of stone under a slate roof and has been extended by previous owners to form a deceptively spacious home.

The dining kitchen was recently refitted with a range of modern wall and floor units and the living room has an open fire. There is a bedroom and bathroom on the ground floor and three further bedrooms and a shower room on the first floor.

The gardens of Tallaminnoch extend to 0.7 acres and are naturally sheltered by the surrounding forestry. There is also a garage, kennels a coal store and shed.

Whilst the property requires a degree of upgrading, Tallaminnoch is a delightful hidden retreat equally suited as a permanent or holiday home.

Offers Over £150,000 are being sought.

PDF available on www.ckdgalbraith.co.uk

CKD Galbraith

7 Killoch Place

Ayr KA7 2EA

Ayrshire, Scotland

Tel: 01292 268181

Fax: 01292 292300

E-mail: ayr@ckdgalbraith.co.uk

Web: www.ckdgalbraith.co.uk

CKD Galbraith’s Ayr Office is a Founder Member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

Training opportunities all over Scotland
- thanks to Commonwealth Games

A thousand young men and women from across Scotland have been supported into an apprenticeship opportunity by the Legacy 2014 Young Persons’ Fund.

[Pictured: First Minister Alex Salmond today met Modern Apprentice Hannah Ross from Historic Scotland. Hannah helped build the table that is a feature of the First Minister's Parliament office in Holyrood. Hannah gained her apprenticeship through UCATT, a trade union specialising in construction.]

The Legacy 2014 Employer Recruitment Incentive funded by Skills Development Scotland (SDS) aims to have at least 1,500 apprentices in place by 31 March 2015. Today’s news confirms that the target is well on track.

Cabinet Secretary for Training, Youth and Women’s Employment Angela Constance today met a number of apprentices working for Tennis Scotland. She said: “With the Queen’s Baton making its way round Scotland, excitement is building for the start of the Commonwealth Games later this month, and sport in Scotland is under the spotlight like never before.

“We have always been clear that the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games legacy goes beyond sport and beyond Glasgow and Scotland should grasp the economic opportunities stemming from the Games with both hands. Figures published last month showed that Scottish companies were set to benefit from hundreds of millions of pounds from Games’ contracts and as the figures today show, many young people are also achieving apprenticeships across a range of frameworks.

“The opportunities the Games have afforded these young people will help them develop their skills and set them up for successful future careers. Alongside the Youth Employment Scotland Fund, Opportunities for All and the actions stemming from the report on Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce, the Scottish Government is committed to supporting more young people towards employment.”

Katie Hutton, Depute Director of National Training Programmes at Skills Development Scotland, added: “The Legacy incentive is also a great way of ensuring employers across Scotland benefit from the Commonwealth Games.

“It is great to see some of our trainees flourishing in their roles as tennis coaches and knowing that many other Modern Apprentices are also being supported by this funding. The skills they learn will stay with them long after the Games have finished and that is a legacy that we are incredibly proud of.”

2014 Commonwealth Games Employer Recruitment Incentive: In support of the 2014 Commonwealth Games, Skills Development Scotland (SDS) will deliver a £1,500 incentive for 16-19 year-olds undertaking a Modern Apprenticeship in selected frameworks, where possible this can be linked to a sporting or cultural event. This Employer Recruitment Incentive will provide employment opportunities for young people across Scotland to ensure a lasting legacy from the 2014 Games.

Following Donald Trump’s announcement of his exciting vision and plans for Trump Turnberry this week, South Ayrshire Council Leader, Councillor Bill McIntosh, said: “We’re very lucky here in Ayrshire to be home to some of the most stunning golf courses in the world including Turnberry, which is a golfing institution that has a fantastic reputation and we want to see that maintained and maximised for the benefit of the local area.

[Pictured: South Ayrshire Council Chief Executive,

Leader and Elected Members welcome Donald Trump.]

“This is a truly exciting day for Trump Turnberry, for South Ayrshire and for golfers around the world who know and love this fantastic golfing resort and will be thrilled with these ambitious plans to make it even greater.

“The plans will provide a much-needed jobs and economic boost for the local area, which is very welcome, and we would also hope to see a wider positive impact for the likes of Prestwick Airport.

“This will help ensure Ayrshire continues to be a major golfing and tourist destination and we look forward to working with Trump Turnberry and our other golfing partners to boost golf, tourism and the economy across Ayrshire.”

Earlier, Donald Trump defended his decision to add his name to one of Scotland’s most famous golf courses.

The Trump Organisation bought the Turnberry course and hotel in Ayrshire for an undisclosed sum in April, and the resort was subsequently renamed Trump Turnberry.

Mr Trump said the renaming was not for his “ego” but to make the course “more successful”.

He has pledged to spend more than £100m on renovating the hotel that overlooks the famous course and said there will be some potential changes to it over the next few years, particularly holes nine to 11.

He added: “We are going to be spending at least £100m on redoing the hotel, on building it up to the highest standards, and I’m talking world standards.

“We have a facility really that can be the finest hotel anywhere in the world, and certainly the finest hotel of its kind anywhere in the world.”

Turnberry is on the rota of courses that can stage the Open Championship and Mr Trump said that was a factor is his decision to purchase the resort.

“It’s a magnificent tournament, I’ve watched it for so many years and never missed it,” he said.

“It’s just an honour to be associated with the Royal and Ancient (golf’s governing body) and the tournament potentially.

“It’s already had four Opens and the women are coming next year, which I consider very important, and I think the greatness of this course will lead to others, it has to.

“We have now the greatest canvas in all of golf so ultimately people can’t avoid it.”

Trump Turnberry and South Ayrshire Council are Founder Members of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

Construction of the new Acute Mental Health and Community development will start at Ayrshire Central Hospital on Monday 14 July.

Balfour Beatty will begin building the new 206-ensuite bedroom mental health and community facility which is expected to open in spring 2016. Work will take place on the grounds of the former Pavilions 4-9, which were situated in the centre of the hospital site.

Both entrances to the hospital will remain open throughout the duration of the works, however occasional restrictions may be in place when deliveries are being received. A number of internal roads will be changed and this will affect access to Pavilions 1, 2 and 3. Signs will be in place to show the alternative routes that should be followed.

Temporary car parking spaces have been provided to make up for parking areas lost during the construction period. Patients, staff and visitors to the site are asked to comply with all permanent and temporary traffic restrictions for the duration of the works.

John Wright, Director for Corporate Services, said: “We are looking forward to getting started and providing the people of Ayrshire and Arran with the very best facility possible. During construction some short-term disruption is inevitable but we will work hard to keep this to a minimum and would appreciate everyone’s patience during this time.”

The annual SafeAyr Shore safety campaign is now underway and lasts until late August and builds on some very positive results from 2013.

Led by the South Ayrshire Community Safety Partnership, the campaign aims to improve community safety and reduce antisocial behaviour in and around Ayr Esplanade over the summer period.

It builds on 2013 initiative which saw seaside and shorefront complaints, antisocial behaviour and disturbances falling by 78% from 2012 – and the aim is to better this in 2014.

In addition to the regular high visibility patrols and increased vigilance on the Esplanade, Police Scotland and the British Transport Police will maintain their zero tolerance approach to drinking alcohol in public and fixed penalty notices will be issued to those caught drinking alcohol in public.

Councillor Rita Miller, chair of the South Ayrshire Community Safety Partnership said: "Ayr Esplanade is a brilliant place for local people and visitors to spend their leisure time, have fun, and enjoy the beach with family and friends marvelling at our outstanding scenery.

“Every summer, we welcome thousands of people who come down to the area to enjoy some early summer sun and spend time on the beach. The vast majority have a great time!

“By working together and taking a zero-tolerance

approach to antisocial behaviour, we’re sending out a clear message that we won’t let the actions of a few inconsiderate people spoil the fun for all the others.”

This year will also see a mobile police unit situated in front of the bandstand and additional portable CCTV cameras have also been installed in the area. The Esplanade has again been divided into clearly defined zones, allowing for an efficient and rapid response to each zone, if required.

Police Scotland’s Local Area Commander, Chief Inspector Willie Ramsay added: "SafeAyr Shore is a successful partnership approach to ensure local residents, and visitors to Ayr, enjoy their visit to the beach and Esplanade.

“Keeping people safe is our priority and we will continue to robustly target the small minority of individuals who commit crime, carry out acts of antisocial behaviour and spoil the experiences of other law abiding families.

“The partnership approach towards the initiative is critical as the benefits are clear for all to see and with the continued support from all involved we will build on the successes achieved over recent years"

The Council’s Community Safety team will be delivering street sport activities on the Low Green on Friday afternoons as well as live music at the pop up band stand on occasional Saturdays throughout the summer.

Councillor Miller concluded: “The message is clear. We want people to come to Ayr to enjoy a fantastic time on the beach, in the shops and businesses in our town and be confident that no matter what the weather, you can do so in safety and in comfort.”

South Ayrshire Council is a Founder Member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

By: Iain Ferguson

AYR Racecourse stages the third of five July fixtures on Monday 14 July, with the seven-race Summer Sizzler Raceday due off at 2.30pm.

[Pictured: Silver Rime wins at Ayr Racecourse last Monday.]

The feature race, the Instabet App Only At BetVictor Handicap over seven furlongs is scheduled for 5.00pm, and should attract a big number of runners competing for the £8500 prize fund.

The opening race at 2.30pm is the Ebf Stallions Maiden, again over seven furlongs for two year-olds, and there will be some interesting types in this.

Meanwhile there was some top racing action at the track last Sunday and Monday, and Linda Perratt and Ruth Carr were the trainers in form with three winners each.

Linda's successes came with Jinky (9/1), ridden by Joe Fanning, winning Sunday’s six furlong handicap and Silver Rime (6/1) landing Monday’s seven furlong handicap for jockey Connor Beasley before Dark Crystal produced a 20/1 shock in the apprentice handicap with Megan Carberry doing the steering.

Ruth Carr’s successes came with were Chosen One (7/2) winner of the amateur riders handicap under Serena Brotherton on Sunday, and Mutafaakir (9/2) and Cono Zur (4/1 jt fav) both winning for jockey James Sullivan on Monday.

Sunday’s meeting was dominated by Scottish trained winners. Keith Dalgleish sent out Hanalei Bay (5/1), with Phil Makin riding, to win The FSB Card Payment Processing Handicap and landed the feature race, the mile handicap, with Sound Advice (13/8 fav) with Jason Hart in the plate.

Jim Goldie saddled Testa Rossa (5/1) to win the one mile two furlong handicap with Graham Lee riding, and Borders-based Alistair Whillans was successful with Opt Out at 18/1 with PJ McDonald on board.

For more information on racing at Ayr go online at www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk or call 01292 264179.

For further information please contact Iain Ferguson on 01292 294972 or 07795 565691.

Ayr Racecourse and the associated Western House Hotel are Founder Members of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

The Scottish Government has given the green light for the next stages of the Corton development planning process. This will focus on progressing the detailed planning proposals approved by South Ayrshire Council in June 2014.

[Pictured: South Ayrshire Councillor Bill Grant, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, Tourism and Leisure.]

The development, from applicant LXB RP (Ayr 1) Ltd, will provide an attractive and distinctive place for people to live, work and enjoy their leisure time as part of a sustainable new community.

It will see the building of 750 new homes – 188 of which will be affordable housing – a business park with offices, business space and workshops; a Sainsbury's supermarket; a neighbourhood shopping centre; a new hotel; a petrol station; a primary school; community facilities and parkland; walking, cycling and safe vehicle routes; and a park and ride facility.

In addition to boosting the local economy by around £40 million, 2,700 construction jobs during the 10-year development of the site will be created, with around 1,000 new jobs for the local area once completed.

Welcoming the Scottish Government’s approval, Councillor Bill Grant, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, Tourism and Leisure said: “This is great news and we can now look ahead to delivering the Corton development in the right way within the south-east Ayr area and create a dynamic, inclusive and accessible community, maximising the potential it offers for the local economy and beyond.

“This corner of the town will be significantly enhanced by the development, with hundreds of new jobs and new homes welcoming new residents and families, a superb new school, landscaped green spaces and community facilities.

“These are exciting times for Ayr and South Ayrshire and I warmly welcome the progress being made.”

The planning application is available. CLICK HERE

South Ayrshire Council is a Founder Member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

By: Iain Ferguson

THE most glamorous night of the year at Ayr Racecourse - QTS Ladies Night on Saturday 9 August 2014 - is raising the stakes this year with a first for the evening - a glitzy Fashion Show.

Models will take to the Cat Walk in the Paddock Lawn Marquee at 5.00pm, and former Miss Scotland Jennifer Reoch, now co-host of the Riverside Show on STV, will be the star compere, joined for the night by a Gary Lamont, who plays the role of hairdresser Robbie Fraser in River City.

Clothes are by Wish and this ground-breaking event is being co-ordinated by Janis Sue Smith, Fashion Editor of the Scottish Sun. The Fashion Show will add to what already is a terrific night.

Ayr Racecourse Sales and Marketing Manager Lindsey Smith explained: “Our QTS Ladies Night is already a real social occasion full of glamour, and is one of the most anticipated nights of the year in the west of Scotland.

“This year we are adding even more by staging a Fashion Show that will take place before racing, and I am delighted we have secured Jennifer as a host.”

QTS Ladies Night also features the fabulous Boyband Legends playing all the hits from legendary boy bands including Take That, the Wanted and Westlife after racing in the Ayrshire Suite, and another live band – to be confirmed – in the Horseshoe Bar.

Best dressed ladies will have the opportunity to win a coin and a place in William Hill Ladies Day Final on 19 September.

The star prize this year is a Vauxhall Adam Glam 1.4, courtesy of Kerr & Smith, runner-up prize is a fabulous holiday for two to Dubai from Stewart Travel, and third prize is cosmetic treatments from Coast Clinic.

Tickets can be booked online at www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk or by calling 01292 264179 and discounts are available up until seven days before the event.

For further information please contact Iain Ferguson on 01292 294972 or 07795 565691.

Ayr Racecourse and the associated Western House Hotel are Founder Members of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

Provost Helen Moonie recently welcomed to South Ayrshire a community children’s choir for talented and gifted singers aged 10-14 from Newnan, Georgia USA.

[Pictured: Provost Moonie welcomes delegates from the Centre Masterworks Chorale, with Leader of the Council Councillor Bill McIntosh and South Ayrshire Council’s Chief Executive, Eileen Howat.]

The Centre Masterworks Youth Chorale was in Ayrshire as guests of the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra, to play a number of concerts and develop cultural and musical links between Georgia and the local area.

The chorale party was headed by Mayor Keith Brady and his wife Katie, who exchanged gifts with Provost Moonie. Also in the American delegation were Newnan council members Rhodes Schell, mayor Pro-Tem Cynthia Jenkins and members of the Newnan Cultural Arts Commission, led by Bette Hickman.

Provost Moonie said: “I had heard so much about the brilliant vocal talent of The Centre Masterworks Youth Chorale and had waited with much anticipation to meet and hear them sing.

[Pictured: Provost Moonie receives a painting, showing a scene from Newnan, Georgia, USA, from Mayor Keith Brady.]

“An undertaking such as this is no mean feat and I want to thank Mayor Brady and Wallace Galbraith of the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra – and the teams behind them – for working so hard to make this visit happen and for bringing these talented young people to South Ayrshire.

“It took real determination, organising and planning to put the tour together and I’d like to congratulate everyone in playing their part in setting the itinerary for this visit and I hope it marks the start of a regular musical and cultural exchange between us all.”

LINKS:

Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra

The Centre Masterworks Youth Chorale

South Ayrshire Council

South Ayrshire Council is a Founder Member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

Pre-recession peak surpassed with record levels of employment

By: Murdoch MacDonald
Economics Correspondent

National Statistics published today by the Scottish Government and covering the first quarter of 2014 show that Scotland’s economy has now grown past its pre-recession peak to a new record level.

[Pictured: Scottish Finance Minister John Swinney (centre) during a visit today to Edinburgh-based website design and bespoke cloud software development company Lyles-Sutherland. On the left, Fraser Sutherland, Managing Director of Lyles-Sutherland, and on the right, Robin Lyles, Technical Director.]

Scotland’s GDP grew 1.0 per cent over the quarter, faster than the UK as a whole. Output in Scotland is now 0.4 per cent above its pre-recession level. The UK figure for quarter one was still 0.6 per cent below pre-recession levels.

Alongside these GDP figures, ONS labour market data published today and covering the period March-May 2014 show that employment in Scotland increased by 76,000 over the year to reach a record 2,587,000.

Employment in Scotland has now increased over the quarter for 17 consecutive monthly releases, the longest ever unbroken run of increasing quarterly employment. Scotland’s employment rate (73.3 per cent) remains higher than for the UK as a whole (73.1 per cent).

The female employment level also reached a record high of 1,249,000. Scotland has a higher female employment rate (69.7 per cent vs 68.1 per cent) than the UK as a whole.

The size of the (16+) labour force increased by 25,000 over the quarter, indicating an increasing number of people entering the jobs market to look for work. Whilst the employment level increased by 12,000, this also explains in part the increase in unemployment over the quarter of 13,000.

Overall, the unemployment rate has fallen by 0.6 percentage points over the year and by 1.0 percentage points over the last 2 years. In addition the claimant count figures for June 2014 fell by 4,000 to under 100,000 for the first time since 2008, indicating continued improvement in labour markets.

Across the EU, the average economic activity rate (15-64) was 72.1 per cent in Jan-Mar 2014. Today’s ONS data for Scotland show that the economic activity rate (16-64) in Scotland is now 78.8 per cent.

[To view video, click on image above.]

Responding to the latest labour market and GDP figures Finance Secretary John Swinney said: “Today’s figures mark an important stage in our recovery.

“These positive output figures show that Scotland’s economy continues to go from strength to strength with growth of 1.0 per cent over the quarter and 2.6 per cent over the year – the fastest annual growth in over three years.

“Nearly six years on from the start of the financial crisis, our economy is now larger than before the downturn. Output in Scotland is at record levels and we have exceeded our pre-recession peak at least one quarter ahead of the UK.

“Over the last quarter the improvement in our economy has been broad-based with welcome signs of growth in manufacturing which was up 3.4 per cent and services which account for over 70 per cent of our economy up 0.9 per cent.

“Today’s output figures are supported by new labour market data which show employment has reached a new record in Scotland with our economic activity rate also hitting a record high.

“As the economy recovers more people are moving from inactivity into the labour market to look for employment. With this boost to economic activity it is not surprising that both employment and unemployment have risen over the quarter – albeit unemployment is still down over the year.

“These figures support the emerging body of evidence which all point to the recovery in Scotland continuing to gather momentum.

“Monday’s Bank of Scotland’s PMI survey indicated that private sector activity in Scotland expanded for the 21st consecutive month in June whilst the Fraser of Allander, ITEM Club and PWC have all revised up their forecasts for growth this year.

“There can be no doubt that Scotland has the economic potential to be an independent country. With the full powers of independence we could do more to get people into work, ensure everyone in Scotland is able to benefit from our national wealth and give employers access to the skills they need to grow their business strengthening our economy and creating jobs.”

Cabinet Secretary for Training, Youth and Women's Employment Angela Constance said: “While today’s figures show growth in Scotland’s economy, our ambition is to do better than to simply return to pre-recession levels of economic performance.

“It is encouraging that female employment continues to increase markedly with a higher employment rate than the rest of the UK.

"Although we continue to do better than the UK in terms of employment rates amongst young people and 90 per cent of school leavers are in positive destinations, our youth unemployment rate remains too high.

“This is why we support the principle outlined in the report last month by the Commission for Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce, that links between schools, colleges and employers can be strengthened, to be more aligned to student and business needs.”

Posted on behalf of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

Glamour, top racing and fine weather forecast at Ayr Racecourse on Saturday

South Ayrshire Council welcomes Scottish Government’s Prestwick Airport investment pledge

CKD Galbraith offer for sale charming Ayrshire country cottage ideal for commuters

Success for southern raiders at Ayr Racecourse

Corton approval gives green light to homes, jobs and economy boost

Kilmarnock Campus construction officially underway

South Ayrshire Council sets the wheels of debate in motion

Outstanding people recognised by South Ayrshire Council

Peppa Pig heads to Ayr Racecourse

South Ayrshire shone for Queen’s Baton relay

CKD Galbraith offers for sale a charming country cottage nestled in the Galloway Forest Park

Scottish Government announces 1,000 legacy apprentices

South Ayrshire Council welcomes Trump Turnberry plans

Work starts at North Ayrshire’s new community hospital

Safe Ayr Shore making waves again in 2014

Sizzling racing action at Ayr Racecourse

Scottish Government gives green light to Corton development

Fashion Show boost for QTS Ladies Night at Ayr Racecourse

Visit of note as South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie welcomes American school choir

Scotland’s economy grows to record level