Ayrshire Scotland Business News

Ayr's X-mas celebrations will definitely have the X Factor this year with 2010 series winner Matt Cardle headlining the music stage in Ayr town centre on Sunday 17 November to switch on the town’s Christmas lights alongside South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie.

Matt (pictured above) is one of the most popular X Factor contestants, famously winning the public vote every single week – except one – during 2010’s live shows. His debut single, ‘When We Collide’, sold over 1 million copies and spent three weeks at number one and he has since achieved two top 10 albums, four sell-out UK & Ireland tours, launched his own record label and recorded his third album, which marks his first foray into the international music market.

He now achieves another first by headlining the start of Ayr’s Christmas festivities at the annual Christmas light switch-on event, with a fantastic free programme of music, entertainment and fun for all the family between 4pm and 6pm on Sunday 17 November.

Supporting Matt at this popular event will be Ayrshire musician, Sean Kennedy, who started out as a footballer before finding his natural home in music. Sean’s music career began in a local band before progressing as a solo musician working with the likes of Andy Taylor (Duran Duran), Nik Kershaw and Simple Minds. He performed at the London 2012 Olympics on stage within the Olympic Park and has since released his debut EP (Extended Play).

Joining Matt and Sean in the line-up are the fantastic Espedair Street Band, with their wonderful renditions of the best of Scottish contemporary pop music from the last five decades including Texas, Marmalade, Amy McDonald, Fratellis, KT Tunstall, Average White Band, Deacon Blue, Runrig, Kelly Marie, Lulu, Hipsway & The Bay City Rollers!

In addition, the Salvation Army will be getting everyone in the Christmas mood with some favourite festive tunes, High Street will be packed with lots of Santas from Ayrshire Cancer Support’s Santa Dash, and local youth drama group, Razzamatazz, will be providing some town centre entertainment.

Further acts have still to be confirmed but it’s certainly going to be another fabulous festive event as Provost Helen Moonie explained: “Christmas is such a magical time of the year and we want to get it off to a great start with the best event possible in Ayr town centre. Matt, Sean and Espedair Street are sure to get the thousands in the crowd going and I have no doubt at all that a wonderful time will be had by all. I would urge everyone to put the date in their diary and make sure they get switched on to Christmas 2013 with South Ayrshire Council.”

South Ayrshire Council is also offering the chance for one lucky person – and a friend – to win the chance to go backstage at the Christmas lights switch-on and meet headline act, Matt Cardle.

To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic festive prize, all you have to do is visit www.facebook.com, search for ‘South Ayrshire Events and Festivals’ and like any of our posts about the Ayr Christmas Lights Switch On. It’s that easy and the winner will be selected at random.

The competition closes at noon on Tuesday 12 November and winners must be available to attend the Ayr Christmas Lights Switch On on Sunday 17 November between 4pm and 6pm. All costs in getting to and from the event will be borne by the winner – full terms and conditions on the South Ayrshire Events and Festivals Facebook page.

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

Government responds to Town Centre Review

Plans to breathe new life into town centres across Scotland have been unveiled by Local Government Minister Derek Mackay.

[Pictured: Minister for Local Government and Planning, Derek Mackay, was in Bank Street Kilmarnock as he plans to breath life into town centres across Scotland, part of which is an expansion of the rates relief scheme for new businesses to include pubs, restaurants and hotels in a bid to diversify the high street. Local shop owner Tracey Murray speaks to the minister.]

Included in the plan is an expansion of the rates relief scheme for new businesses to include pubs, restaurants and hotels in a bid to diversify the high street.

The Town Centre Action Plan is a cross-government response to the independent National Review of Town Centres, published in July.

The Action Plan addresses the recommendations of the Review and out-lines proposed joint working between public, private and community sectors.

Actions include:

•Expanding the ‘Fresh Start’ business rates relief to apply to pubs, hotels and restaurants from 1 April 2014 and to increase the thresholds of the scheme from property with a rateable value of £45,000 to £65,000

•£2 million towards a Town Centre Housing Fund to help bring empty town centre properties back into use

•Working with COSLA to develop a town centre first principle. This will include a series of demonstration projects specifically targeting areas identified by the Review group

•Powers for local authorities to establish Town Centre Investment Zones

•£120,000 for Town Centre charettes – grants available to help deliver community design meetings specifically focused on town centres

•Launching a competition for entrepreneurs to drive forward town centre regeneration ideas

•Local Government and Planning Minister Derek Mackay named as dedicated Minister for Town Centres

•Maintaining the Small Business Bonus Scheme for the life of the current Parliament, removing or substantially reducing the rates burden for thousands of town centre properties

•Working with stakeholders to identify support priorities for Business Improvement District (BID) projects

•Investigating ways of expanding the role of Scottish Future Trust place-based reviews

Speaking during his visit to Bank Street in Kilmarnock, which, due to the efforts of East Ayrshire Council, local traders groups and businesses, reached 100 per cent occupancy in October this year, Mr Mackay said: “The Scottish Government is determined that our town centres should be vibrant, attractive and safe places where local people and visitors alike want to spend their time and money.

“They should be accessible places which invite business start-up and inspire innovative ideas from all walks of the community. We welcomed the independent review earlier this year and the crucial role it will play in the regeneration of high streets across Scotland.

“In response to this we are today publishing an Action Plan which will encourage and support action across the wider public, private and community sectors.

“We recognise the importance of securing the future of our high streets as the economic centre of our towns. This is why we have expanded Fresh Start – our rates relief scheme for new businesses – to include pubs, hotels and restaurants and increasing the thresholds for the scheme.

“Our town centres should also be places where we live and socialise, which is why we have allocated £2 million towards a housing fund to bring empty properties back into use as homes and are supporting community design charettes through £120,000 in funding.

“The plan marks a new era for Scotland’s town centres and we will continue to work in partnership with local authorities, private and community organisations to ensure they are vibrant places to live, work and socialise.”

Malcolm Fraser, the architect who led the Town Centre Review, said: “What I think we have here, is a change of Government mindset: a reversal of the throw-away habit that abandons old towns, with their communities, infrastructure and services, for greenfield sites.

“I’m impressed at the Government’s determination to promote a new, town-centred culture across its policy-making and decision-taking. Next is for Local Authorities to embrace the challenges and opportunities this brings, and for our business and communities to be encouraged and enabled.”

Councillor Douglas Reid, leader of East Ayrshire Council said: “Within East Ayrshire we want our town centres to be vibrant, bustling places where people can work, shop, live and socialise and we are working very hard to ensure positive change for our communities.

“The Bank Street area of Kilmarnock is the perfect example of what can be achieved. Over many years, this area has benefitted from investment in regeneration projects and owners of buildings have been given help to restore and upgrade their premises. The Council has also worked to enhance the look of the street with improved street furniture and lighting, new cobbles and street artwork.”

During his visit Mr Mackay met with traders on Bank Street, including Coffee Press owner, Alisdair Hood (pictured above).

Mr Hood said: “Bank Street is bucking the trend with 100 per cent occupancy and lots of independent shops.

“For me a town centre should be the beating heart of a community and we all have a role to play in developing our town centres.”

The Action Plan will be published at 10am on November 7 2013. Link to the Action Plan on the Scottish Government website: www.scotland.gov.uk/publications

Also published today is an independent analysis commissioned by Historic Scotland, which assessed the impact of a range of investments (Conservation Area Regeneration Schemes, Historic Building Repair Grants, support for City Heritage Trusts, Archaeology Grants, Ancient Monument Grants and Voluntary Sector Grants). It shows that investments in the historic environment over the past five years have been a catalyst for further investment in our communities, including town centres, highlighting the key role these grants play in regeneration and supporting tourism.

RICS October 2013 UK Residential Market Survey

House prices jumped once again last month as increasing interest from would-be buyers outstripped the amount of properties coming onto the market, according to October’s RICS Residential Market Survey.

The proportion of chartered surveyors reporting price rises hit a five year high, as the net balance of respondents reporting rises jumped to 54 percent. This is the highest reading since September 2007 and demonstrates the impact that the imbalance between supply and demand is having on the market.

Sarah Speirs (pictured above), Director RICS Scotland, commented: “The housing market is gathering momentum and buyer numbers are on the rise across Scotland. That said, the number of homes currently up for sale is still nowhere near enough to keep up with demand and – in order for the market to function correctly – this imbalance urgently needs to be addressed. If we are to create a more sustainable market, it is critical that many more good quality homes are built in areas where people want to live.”

With the housing market showing consistently positive signs in recent months, demand for rented accommodation in Scotland is rising more modestly than previously. A net balance of only thirteen percent of respondents reported rises in interest from potential tenants during October.

Looking ahead, respondents are optimistic that the currently flourishing market is set to continue, with expectations for both future prices and future transaction numbers remaining steady over the coming three months.

Kevin J Macdonald MRICS, Graham and Sibbald, commented: “This year has seen a marked increase in numbers of purchasers looking to buy and prices being paid, with many properties also now taking less time to sell than had previously been the case. The reintroduction of closing dates is a further positive sign.”

RICS housing market survey is the longest running monthly survey of house prices in the UK, collecting data since January 1978. The survey is cited by the Bank of England’s monetary policy committee at its monthly interest rate setting meetings.

RICS is the world’s leading qualification when it comes to professional standards in land, property and construction.

In a world where more and more people, governments, banks and commercial organisations demand greater certainty of professional standards and ethics, attaining RICS status is the recognised mark of property professionalism.

Over 100,000 property professionals working in the major established and emerging economies of the world have already recognised the importance of securing RICS status by becoming members.

RICS is an independent professional body originally established in the UK by Royal Charter. Since 1868, RICS has been committed to setting and upholding the highest standards of excellence and integrity – providing impartial, authoritative advice on key issues affecting businesses and society. RICS is a regulator of both its individual members and firms enabling it to maintain the highest standards and providing the basis for unparalleled client confidence in the sector.

www.rics.org/uk/

South Ayrshire Council yesterday (Wednesday 13 November 2013) granted the Honorary Freedom of South Ayrshire to The Royal Regiment of Scotland.

To mark this very special occasion, of 400 soldiers returning home after their third tour of Afghanistan, the servicemen and women paraded through Ayr town centre on Wednesday 13 November 2013. Cheers, clapping and shouts of good luck filled the air as the 250 servicemen and women were acclaimed by the public who lined the streets to show their support and join in the celebration.

The parade coincided with the troops returning from their third recent tour and it was an opportunity to welcome them home and celebrate their achievements.

As South Ayrshire Provost, Helen Moonie, who played a pivotal role in the Honorary Freedom Ceremony, and is a great advocate of supporting past and present servicemen and women said: “The Honorary Freedom of Ayr is our way of saying thank you to all our brave service personnel."

The troops formed a parade in Pavilion Road which included a brass band, and a military pipe band. The parade led by their Shetland pony mascot marched past the Cenotaph at Wellington Square, through the town where the Depute Lord Lieutenant John Dalrymple-Hamilton and South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie took a salute at the Wallace Tower.

Along with dignitaries at the Wallace Tower were representatives from South Ayrshire secondary schools, who were also invited to attend the ceremony at the Auld Kirk.

The parade marched to the Ayr Auld Kirk where at a very special ceremony, conducted by the Rev David Gemmell (pictured above) and Rev Colin MacLeod, Army Padre, the Freedom Roll was signed by Eileen Howat, South Ayrshire Council’s Chief Executive who said: “This is a great way to recognise the contribution of the armed forces personnel. They are in good company as this honour was previously given to people such as Andrew Carnegie, Sir Winston Churchill and US President Dwight D Eisenhower, HMS Gannet and RAF Prestwick.”

The Freedom Roll was signed by Eileen Howat, Chief Executive of South Ayrshire Council and Lieutenant General Andrew Graham CB, CBE.

After the ceremony the parade marched to Ayr Town Hall where Provost Moonie hosted a civic reception to mark the occasion and there was a medal presentation by the General Graham to some of the soldiers.

The Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Robin Lindsay said: “2 SCOTS are delighted to be home from a hard tour and to be reunited with our loved ones. However, our thoughts have been and will continue to be with the families of the three soldiers who were killed on operations.

“We have been overwhelmed by the exceptional support received from local communities over the past six months. It is an honour to accept the Freedom of South Ayrshire on behalf of the Royal Regiment of Scotland.”

A selection of photographs taken at the event is available on Flickr - CLICK HERE.

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

First Scotland Day in Qatar showcases Scottish culture

Minister for External Affairs, Humza Yousaf, welcomed enthusiastic guests to the first ever Scotland Day in the Middle East region joining expats and local Qataris to celebrate traditional and contemporary Scottish culture.

[Pictured: Scotland’s Minister for External Affairs Humza Yousaf (far right) meets children at celebrations in Doha for Qatar’s first Scotland Day.]

The event, which was organised by the British Council, marked the end of the Minister’s five-day visit to the Middle East to strengthen Scotland’s ties with the Gulf States and promote Scotland as a great place to visit and do business.

Guests tasted Scottish delicacies including smoked salmon, cheeses and natural mineral water against a backdrop of stunning photographs of Scotland at the reception, two weeks ahead of St Andrew’s Day.

The event was held at the spectacular Katara Cultural Village, where expats and local Qataris heard Scottish musicians including the Ross Ainslie and Jarlath Henderson Band who played to a packed house at the event. Guests were also able to try traditional ceilidh dancing and take part in an Orcadian Strip the Willow.

Minister for External Affairs, Humza Yousaf said: “Scotland Day was a fantastic opportunity to showcase our distinctive and diverse cultural landscape – from contemporary art and music to ceilidh dancing – and our wonderful food and drink.

“There are strong links between Scotland and the Gulf States, and celebrating Scotland Day together gave us a chance to build on these still further, taking an important step in deepening the friendship between Scotland and Qatar.

“The day also marked the beginning of the international celebrations of St Andrew’s Day - we want everyone with a Scottish connection or a love of our country to join us and enjoy our traditional and contemporary culture and our fabulous food and produce.

"As we move towards 2014, a year that will see Scotland host the Ryder Cup, welcome the world to the Commonwealth Games and hold a referendum on Scotland’s independence, international interest in us is growing and we are keen to share our experience with our friends around the world.”

Martin Hope, Director of British Council Qatar said: “The first Scotland Day in Doha has been a massive success and was enjoyed immensely by a truly international audience.

“There’s a sizable Scottish community based in Qatar so it is great that both Qataris and Scots have the opportunity to share in and appreciate the diverse cultural offerings each country has to offer.

“The Qatar UK 2013 year of culture is all about strengthening ties between Qatar and the UK and we look forward to this sharing of cultures continuing as the friendship between Qatar and the UK continues to deepen.”

Mr Yousaf has visited the UAE and Qatar this week to build stronger ties between our governments, our businesses and our people across the Middle East region.

A £4bn investment in a major oil field off Shetland has been given the go-ahead.

The Kraken field, which is estimated to contain nearly 140m barrels of oil, is majority-owned by Aberdeen-based EnQuest.

The construction phase of the project is expected to support 20,000 jobs.

EnQuest also expects to take on an average of about 1,000 operational jobs in the UK for each year of Kraken's 25-year life.

The development, which was approved by the Department of Energy and Climate Change, is the largest investment announced in the UK North Sea this year.

Kraken’s two heavy oil fields will receive tax allowances introduced by the UK government in a bid to stimulate investment in the sector.

Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne said: “This is a big investment that will create jobs and boost the British economic plan.

“It is also evidence that our efforts to create a competitive tax regime that gets the most oil and gas out of the North Sea are working.”

EnQuest chief executive Amjad Bseisu described Kraken as “a transformational project” for the company”

“Companies like EnQuest are the future of the North Sea,” he said.

“It is only by combining our skills and expertise with fiscal incentives, such as heavy oil allowances, that really substantial projects like Kraken are possible.”

Kraken is located about 125km (77 miles) east of the Shetland Islands.

The field, which will consist of 25 wells, is estimated to contain 137 million barrels of oil.

Gross peak oil production is expected to be more than 50,000 barrels per day, with first oil production planned for 2016/2017.

EnQuest has a 60% interest in Kraken. Its partners in the development are Cairn Energy and First Oil.

Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism Fergus Ewing (pictured above) also welcomed the announcement. He said: “I had the pleasure of meeting with EnQuest in September this year and I warmly welcome this announcement of £4 billion investment in the Kraken field east of Shetland and the job creation and supply chain opportunities it will bring. This follows on from a host of significant investment announcements recently - unequivocal evidence of the faith that the oil & gas industry has in the future of the North Sea as an oil producing province.”

“This is also clear evidence that new opportunities still exist in the sector. Scotland’s industry-led Oil and Gas strategy sets out an overall theme of maximising resource recovery through a focus on industry led innovation, skills and supply chain growth. With up to 24 billion recoverable barrels with a potential wholesale value of £1.5 trillion, more than half of the resources in the North Sea, by value, still to be extracted, it is clear that the industry will make an important contribution to the Scottish economy for decades to come.”

Industrial strategy for independence will create jobs boost

An independent Scotland would take full advantage of its vast resources and talent to maximise its potential and deliver a more prosperous country and a fairer society, First Minister Alex Salmond said today.

[CLICK ON IMAGE ABOVE TO VIEW VIDEO.]

The First Minister said the Westminster system has created one of the largest gaps between rich and poor in the developed world, an unbalanced economy which has focused on London and the South-East of England, neglected manufacturing and created large trade deficits.

In “Economic policy choices in an independent Scotland” Mr Salmond set out key policy areas which will transfer to an independent Scotland to build greater long-term economic security, growth and job opportunities including:

• Establishing an industrial strategy which rebalances the economy and diversifies Scotland’s industrial base - promoting manufacturing, innovation and boosting productivity. An increase of just one per cent in Scotland’s productivity performance has the potential to boost employment by around 21,000 over the long-term.

• Promoting participation in the labour market by delivering more efficient employability, welfare and skills programmes and transforming child care. An increase in Scotland’s economic activity rate of one percentage point would be equivalent to an extra 30,000 plus people in the labour market.

• Targeting measures to reduce outflow of labour and attract skilled workers to enhance Scotland’s population growth and build on the current projections of nine per cent growth over the 25 year period of 2012 to 2037.

• Using tax incentives to support growth in key sectors (e.g. tourism & creative industry) and target areas – such as international connectivity – through initiatives such as reforming Air Passenger Duty.

• Using carefully targeted tax measures, such as a reduction in corporation tax, to counterbalance the pull of London and the South East an initiative that is forecast to create approximately 27,000 jobs.

• Boosting the internationalisation and brand recognition of the Scottish economy including reforming the structures that support trade, integrating business and industrial strategies, with trade, foreign policy and international engagement. A 50 per cent increase in the value of Scottish exports could boost output by around £5 billion and create over 100,000 jobs in the long-term.

Crucially, the evidence of Scotland’s economic performance as part of the UK shows that it is only with a vote for independence in next year’s referendum that Scotland will be given the opportunity to secure the transformational benefits that can come from bringing together key policy areas with taxation, welfare and public sector investment.

Launching ‘Economic policy choices in an independent Scotland’ at Dundee University’s College of Life Sciences, First Minister Alex Salmond said: “Scotland can more than afford to be a successful independent country, with a thriving economy and opportunities for everyone. We have vast natural resources and huge human talent – but those advantages held been stifled by having our economic policy run by Westminster.

“The one size fits all economic policies of successive Westminster Governments have failed and are continuing to fail the people of Scotland. We perform well at the moment but we should be doing so much better. A simple glance at many other European countries of similar size to Scotland, some without the natural advantages Scotland has, shows that we have lagged behind their growth rates for decades.

“Independence will give us with the chance to build an economy that takes advantage of Scotland’s unique strengths and size to deliver a more outward focussed, fairer and resilient economy, boosting revenues and creating many thousands of more jobs.

“This paper sets out just some of the options and opportunities available in an independent Scotland. It outlines the opportunities that will allow us to rebalance our economy, to support re-industrialisation through innovation, diversification and the promotion of exports and to rebalance the economy.

“Increasing the level of participation in our economy by securing new and long-term job opportunities and boosting productivity by improving the business environment will help ensure that the benefits of economic growth are felt by all parts of our country.

“That will make Scotland a fairer country, in contrast to the economic policies of Westminster which have resulted in the UK becoming one of the most unequal societies in the developed world – a trend that is only likely to get worse under Westminster rule.

“As this report makes clear, rebalancing the economy, boosting economic performance and tackling the long-standing inequalities in society created by Westminster will take time, but it can only be done with the powers of independence.

“Only with independence will we be able to maximise our huge potential and deliver the type of economy and society that reflects the values of the people of Scotland.”

The report can be found at:
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2013/11/2439

A leading Ayrshire businessman has written to Scotland’s First Minister urging him to positively encourage oil exploration off the south west Scottish coast.

Norman Geddes is managing partner at Frazer Coogans Commercial Solicitors, based in Ayr, as well as executive chairman of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

[Pictured: Norman Geddes (left) hosts an Elite Ayrshire Business Circle summer luncheon at Turnberry Luxury Collection Resort.]

In his letter to Alex Salmond, Mr Geddes referred to recent newspaper revelations about how, back in the 1980s, the UK Ministry of Defence blocked oil companies from making further exploration off the coast of south-west Scotland after initial tests had indicated the likely presence in the area of recoverable reserves of oil and gas.

The reason given at the time was the proximity of the Trident base at Faslane, and that further drilling activities might interfere with nuclear submarine exercises.

These facts have come to light as a result of Freedom of Information requests by Chic Brodie MSP, and have been reported by Andrew Picken in three separate articles in the “Sunday Post” newspaper.

In his letter to the First Minister, Mr Geddes continues: “In the third of these articles I was glad to read that your spokesman replied on your behalf: “In an independent Scotland there will be no no-go areas for oil exploration on the Atlantic shelf or anywhere else. The waters off the west coast of Scotland are potentially rich in oil and gas resources, and we will make sure we do everything we can to maximise the returns from the industry.”

“However, I would ask you to go even further.

“On behalf of the Membership of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle I would urge you to make an irrevocable policy commitment, and pledge that, post-independence, your Government will positively invite and encourage oil companies to bid for exploration and production rights in the waters off the south-west coast of Scotland.

“You are no doubt mindful of how many parts of this region have been sorely blighted by the ravages of industrial decline in the past few decades, and what a profound and dramatic economic renaissance might result from such an action on your part.

“This policy pledge would be warmly welcomed by my Members, and most certainly by the business community of Scotland as a whole.

“I look forward to receiving your early and positive response.”

PR-Inside

The Elite Ayrshire Business Circle

The Elite Ayrshire Business Circle is an association founded in 2007 by some of the top companies in Ayrshire.

Its purpose is to publicise its members, and to celebrate and promote the wealth and rich diversity of entrepreneurial talent and business excellence that abounds here within the county boundaries of Ayrshire.

Members include Ayr Racecourse, Western House Hotel, Turnberry Golf Resort and South Ayrshire Council. Member company activities include broadcasting, building and construction, architectural practice, estate agency and land management, chartered accountancy, insurance broking, legal services, golf club management, marketing services and brand creation, web design and public relations consultancy.

Frazer Coogans Commercial Solicitors senior partner Norman Geddes (above left) is executive chairman of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle, and managing director is public relations consultancy Fame Publicity Services proprietor Murdoch MacDonald (above right).

An attractive small farm with productive agricultural land in the heart of Ayrshire has just been placed onto the open market through leading Scottish property consultants, CKD Galbraith.

Lambridden Farm extends to some 72.34 hectares (178.75 acres) in total and is a compact farm unit for sale as a whole or in three individual lots, situated in an easily accessible location close to Ayr and Kilmarnock and only 40 minutes drive from Glasgow.

Historically Lambridden has operated as a livestock farm and equestrian property with a range of modern and traditional outbuildings. The majority of the land, principally located all in one block, is down to rotational and permanent grass and has been let out seasonally.

The land is generally of a varying aspect and classified by the James Hutton Institute for Soil Research as principally being grade 4.2 and therefore capable of growing high yielding crops of grass and other forage.

There is also an area of mixed amenity woodland extending to approximately 11.53 hectares (28.5 acres) which is located to the north of the property and presents an attractive backdrop to the farmhouse.

The original three bedroom farmhouse enjoys a secluded position centrally within the holding and offers comfortable family accommodation over two levels. The adjoining farm buildings offer a development opportunity to create additional residential accommodation subject to planning consent.

Duncan Barrie, senior associate of CKD Galbraith who is marketing the sale, said: “Lambridden Farm presents a great opportunity for both prospective amenity buyers and local farmers looking to acquire a block of productive land with a range of useful outbuildings and the traditional farmhouse offering the potential for a good sized family home.

“The farm benefits from being in an accessible location of Ayrshire and as its available in a number of lots the property presents a range of buying options.”

Lambridden Farm is available for sale as a whole at offers over £630,000 or in the following lots:

Lot 1: approximately 20.85 hectares (51.52 acres) – offers over £365,000

Lot 2: approximately 19.33 hectares (47.76 acres) – offers over £145,000

Lot 3: approximately 32.16 hectares (79.46 acres) – offers over £120,000

CKD Galbraith is an independent property consultancy employing 250 staff in 14 offices across Scotland including Edinburgh, Stirling, Perth, Cupar, Inverness, Aberfeldy, Castle Douglas, Ayr, Elgin, Galashiels, Kelso, Peebles, Alyth and Aberdeen, offering local knowledge, national expertise and enjoying an international presence.

The firm is Scotland’s largest and leading rural consultancy managing in excess of 1 million acres of land across the country.

CKD Galbraith provides the full range of property consulting services across the residential, commercial, rural and renewable energy sectors throughout Scotland. The partnership also enjoys a successful relationship with its associate firm in London, CKD Kennedy Macpherson.

To find out more about CKD Galbraith visit www.ckdgalbraith.co.uk

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

Turnberry, a Luxury Collection Resort, has appointed a new Executive Chef. In his new role, Chef Munur Kara will oversee the development of the hotel’s renowned restaurants and bars.

Munur Kara (pictured above and below) joins the resort from The Dorchester hotel in London where he was Head Chef of the busy Promenade Restaurant. Munur’s appointment at Turnberry sees him leading a team of over 50 associates at the award-winning resort and overseeing the operations of its six restaurants, including the hotel’s signature restaurant, 1906.

The move is a return to Turnberry for Munur. He first worked at the resort in 2004 as a Senior Sous Chef, progressing over the following five years, before leaving for London and the position of Head Chef at The Royal Horseguards hotel.

Jordi Tarrida, General Manager of Turnberry Resort (pictured above) commented: “It’s fantastic to see Munur, one of our home-grown talents, back in the kitchens at Turnberry as Executive Chef. He will be a great asset to our senior team at Turnberry and we are looking forward to seeing him develop his own vision for our six restaurants and bars.”

Munur is now working on creating new dishes for the forthcoming 2014 menus. He is also very keen to continue building on the success of the James Miller Room, the hotel’s intimate fine dining room which was awarded Gold Class status by the Sustainable Restaurant Association in 2012.

Munur, who has already relocated to Ayrshire to start his new job, commented: “It’s a pleasure to be back at the beautiful Turnberry Resort after a long period in London. I am passionate about continuing Turnberry’s commitment to working with the abundance of natural produce we have on our doorstep in Ayrshire. It’s a great opportunity to make the most of our fantastic local ingredients and further develop our sustainable credentials. I’m very much looking forward to developing the menu and to working hard with the terrific kitchen team.”

Born and raised in the East end of London to Cypriot parents, Munur has worked through the ranks of some of London’s best hotels. Inspired by his father, also a chef, Munur’s early career was in restaurants and he chose to study food and beverage at college.

During his studies he also worked at a local butcher. He spent five years with Wheelers Restaurant in Tower Bridge, followed by a move to Chamberlains Restaurant in London where he met Ralph Porciani, former Executive Chef of Turnberry and now Director of Operations at the Resort. Porciani recruited him to join Turnberry in 2004 where he stayed for five years, including working through two Open Championships, before a Head Chef position lured him back to London in 2009.

His first Head Chef role was at The Royal Horseguards hotel in Whitehall where he developed the hotel’s main restaurant One Twenty One Two, delivering two AA Rosettes within seven months. After three years, he moved to one of London’s most luxurious hotels, The Dorchester, a role that brought the opportunity to cook for international VIPs, royalty and celebrities. As Head Chef of the Promenade Restaurant, Munur managed a busy team, covering breakfast to supper and producing over 160 afternoon teas every day.

His return to Turnberry as Executive Chef in 2013 is an opportunity to bring his own style of cooking and leadership to the busy Turnberry kitchens and further develop the resort’s six restaurants and bars.

Turnberry Luxury Collection Resort is a Founder Member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

www.turnberryresort.co.uk

More photos on Flickr. CLICK HERE.

TV gardener and BBC Beechgrove Garden presenter Jim McColl helped Gardening Leave officially launch Phase 2 of its project to renovate a large Victorian ‘Stovehouse’ greenhouse next to its horticultural therapy garden at Auchincruive, near Ayr.

[Pictured: South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie with Jim McColl in the Stovehouse.]

When complete, Gardening Leave will be able to offer armed forces veterans with mental health issues more space to work inside on therapeutic gardening and woodwork tasks, particularly over the winter months. It will also allow the charity to offer a broader range of activities to a greater number of veterans.

Jim McColl is a former student at the old agricultural college at Auchincruive and as a youngster worked in the Stovehouse before it fell into disrepair. Gardening Leave has restored the first half of the listed Stovehouse building but urgently needs to complete this second phase to ensure the building is restored back to its former glory. £50,000 funding from the Pilgrim Trust will allow this final phase to start but the charity still needs to find a further £40,000 to complete the work.

Local Provost Helen Moonie and a group from the Army Cadet Force lent a hand to help launch the project.

[Pictured: Jim McColl, Heather Budge-Reid, horticultural therapist Pamela Smith, Professor George Marshall from the SRUC and South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie.]

Jim McColl said: “I studied and worked at Auchincruive from 1954 to 1959. During the last three years I lived with three others in the Bothy right on site. With the glasshouse foreman, we formed a team to perform weekend duty rota which entailed looking after thousands of plants. It was our responsibility to look after them, in various glasshouses, including the Stovehouse. That included stoking 5 different boilers (three of them by hand!).

“Two words there stick out a mile – duty and responsibility. These values, which I learned at that time, have stayed with me till this day. The guys who work in this same environment today have ably displayed their duty and responsibility and now the restoration of these glasshouses to full working order, for their use, is surely an apt metaphor for our present duty and responsibility to them. Needless to say, I am delighted to have the opportunity to help publicise this invaluable initiative,” he added.

Gardening Leave’s Chief Executive Heather Budge-Reid said: “I can’t tell you how excited we are that the Pilgrim Trust is making this possible. Jim McColl’s visit will mean the world to our veterans and the cadets who are helping us. When the building is finished it will be something for all of Ayrshire to be proud of.”

Director at the Pilgrim Trust, Georgina Naylor, said: “The Pilgrim Trust is delighted to be able to contribute towards the repair of this important listed garden building particularly as, once restored, it will be used for its original purpose, horticulture, and also will support the work Gardening Leave does with veterans.”

South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie said: “Gardening Leave does a great job, some veterans needs are highly visible, and others are not, but, in the end, with the right support, every veteran is helped to be the best they can be. When you take a cutting from a plant, or have a young seedling, it needs the right surroundings, nourishment and encouragement to grow and flourish – that is what Gardening Leave provides.

“The work that has been carried out, and the work that will be carried out is transforming the Stovehouse into a multifunctional area that can be used to meet the needs of veterans,” she added.

Gardening Leave tends to the invisible wounds of conflict by providing horticultural therapy for troubled veterans. An estimated 20% of veterans carry a mental wound and these needs as much healing as any physical wound. Gardening Leave has four projects across the UK (Auchincruive, Erskine and two in London) where its specially trained horticultural therapists work with veterans to help them on their journey to good health and their transition to civilian life. The value of gardening therapy is well recognised, particularly for people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression.

Prestwick Airport has passed into public ownership after being bought by the Scottish Government for £1.

The facility, which was put up for sale last year by New Zealand firm Infratil, has incurred annual losses of £2m.

It is understood a deal was concluded late on Friday. It is expected the airport will continue to operate as normal and there will be no job losses.

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the deal would help protect the airport and the jobs it supported.

She said that work would now begin for “turning Prestwick around and making it a viable enterprise.”

She said: “It’s a good decision and I’m glad we’ve reached this outcome, because it allows us to protect not just the asset of Prestwick Airport but the jobs that directly and indirectly depend on it.”

Ms Sturgeon said the full terms of the agreement with Infratil and the Scottish Government’s business plan for the Ayrshire facility would be made public at a later date.

She added: “This is not a decision we have taken lightly.

“We would have preferred to see a private company buy Prestwick Airport, but the strategic and economic importance of Prestwick Airport is such that we weren’t prepared to see Prestwick close.”

The Deputy First Minister said the government would run the airport on “a commercial basis” and do everything it could to return it to profit as soon as possible.

She said the long-term goal was to return it to private ownership but said, realistically, it may take “some time” to have the airport running profitably.

“First and foremost we need to make sure that the airport is operating on the right basis,” she said.

“We’ve made clear our intention to have a separate company to run the airport for us.”

South Ayrshire Council Leader, Councillor Bill McIntosh has welcomed the announcement that Glasgow Prestwick Airport has officially transferred into public ownership.

Councillor McIntosh said: “I’m delighted that the deal to take Prestwick Airport into public ownership has been concluded quickly and positively.

“The airport is vital to the local and national economy and this excellent news will be a huge relief for the 1,400 people employed there – and for those companies directly involved with the freight, training, maintenance and repair operations at the site, supporting an additional 3,200 jobs.

“The transfer of ownership, just before Christmas, could not have come at a better time for the staff and families whose future looked less than certain a few weeks ago.

“We look forward to working with the Scottish Government to explore and maximise the commercial opportunities available and to develop Prestwick Airport’s undoubted potential, to secure a bright, sustainable and long-term future for the site.”

Christmas has come early in North Ayr as pupils, parents, staff and local councillors celebrated the completion of a £3.2 million refurbishment programme at Braehead Primary School.

The work has transformed the school into a place fit to meet educational needs of the 21st century, and marks another important chapter in the history of the school, which has 157 pupils and 40 nursery children.

From the start, the Council worked with architects, pupils, parents and the community to ensure that the work met the needs of the school and outstanding features include:

• An all-weather multi-use games area

• Fully modernised gymnasium

• Re-designed kitchen and dining area

• Superb new art room

• Redesigned and more accessible main entrance

• Exterior hard and soft landscaping, including an amphitheatre seating area.

And the festive cheer was in full flow as the pupils put on a special show to mark the occasion, with Councillor Margeret Toner, Portfolio Holder for Lifelong Learning, unveiling a commemorative plaque to mark the official opening,

Councillor Toner said: “Educating our next generation is a big priority for South Ayrshire Council and we believe the best way to get today’s pupils fit for tomorrow’s world, is to create bright, inspiring and creative spaces in they can learn and interact with their peers, teachers and the wider community.

“The £3.2 million project at Braehead has created just that, and is a fantastic transformation marking our commitment to ensuring our school buildings provide first-class facilities for pupils and staff so they can benefit from the best possible education experience.”

After the official opening of the extension Mr Ian Gall, School Chaplain dedicated the school, before pupils took to the stage for an evening with a Commonwealth theme – which included Indian dancing, African drumming and even a Highland Fling!

Guests were then treated to a special video presentation on what the newly refurbished school meant to them, finishing the film with their new school song ‘What I Am’.

Sandra Campbell, Head Teacher said: “The school has been transformed to the highest possible standards, and this will have a positive and lasting impact on the whole school community.

“Our children particularly enjoy the fantastic all-weather games facility for a variety of purposes, and our amazing art room is the most inspirational room in the school.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the architects and contractors for all their hard work and I’d also like say a huge thank-you to all staff, parents, carers, young people and the wider community for their patience, support and co-operation throughout this wonderful project.”

Councillor Toner concluded: “We enjoyed a superb evening of fun entertainment and the excitement on the pupils’ faces was clear to see – and that’s before the excitement of Christmas has started!

“It was a pleasure to officially mark the completion of these refurbishment works and I’m sure the new facilities at Braehead will help motivate and inspire the next generation of learners.

“I hope the present pupils will build on the successes of pupils past, as they – and the whole community – look forward to a future of successful learning at Braehead primary school.”

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

First Minister Alex Salmond today launched the “most comprehensive blueprint for an independent country ever published” - Scotland’s Future – Your Guide to an Independent Scotland.

The guide, which runs to 670 pages and 170,000 words, outlines the shape of the thriving Scotland that will emerge in the event of a vote for independence in next year’s referendum. It also offers a transformational vision of work and social policy, with a revolution in childcare at its heart.

The guide sets out the case for independence and outlines the journey, following a yes vote on 18 September next year, that Scotland will make to independence day on 24 March 2016.

The guide is structured in five parts:

• An overview of the case for independence, including why Scotland needs independence and what a newly independent Scotland will look like.

• A description of the strengths of Scotland’s national finances, a projection of Scotland’s opening financial position at the point of independence and the current Scottish Government’s priorities for the first term of a Scottish Parliament if elected in the May 2016 elections.

• A detailed analysis of the changes needed across Scotland, the opportunities that independence provides for any future Scottish government to make those changes, and the particular priorities for action identified by this government.

• The timescale and process for Scotland to become an independent country following a yes vote; the transition that will take place and the negotiations and agreements that will be required. It also sets out the opportunities for a modern democracy with a written constitution and describes how equality and human rights will be protected and promoted.

• The answers to 650 detailed questions about the opportunities and practicalities of independence.

The guide, published today, includes details of the savings that can be made with independence, including half a billion pounds on defence spending and savings from no longer contributing to the funding of the Westminster Parliament.

It also outlines the Scottish Government’s policies on issues such as currency, international representation - including independent and equal membership of the European Union - citizenship, defence and security, the harnessing of Scotland’s natural resources for the benefit of current and future generations and the fiscal levers necessary to grow the Scottish economy.

The guide also details a range of polices that would be introduced if the current Scottish Government is elected to be the government of an independent Scotland, including:

• A transformation in childcare, helping more women into work and providing up to 35,000 jobs.

• A safe, triple-locked pension that meets Scotland’s needs and puts more money in the pockets of our pensioners.

• A guaranteed minimum wage that rises alongside the cost of living to make sure the lowest paid get a fair wage for a fair days work.

• Basic rate tax allowances and tax credits that will also rise at least in line with inflation.

• A change to the way ‘green levies’ are paid for - saving families around £70 a year on their energy bills.

• A fairer welfare system, including a halt to the rollout of Universal Credit and the abolition of the ‘Bedroom Tax’.

• A productivity and competitive boost to secure the position of Scottish business.

The First Minister said: “This is the most comprehensive blueprint for an independent country ever published, not just for Scotland but for any prospective independent nation.

“But more than that, it is a mission statement and a prospectus for the kind of country we should be and which this Government believes we can be.

“Our vision is of an independent Scotland regaining its place as an equal member of the family of nations – however, we do not seek independence as an end in itself, but rather as a means to changing Scotland for the better.

"We know we have the people, the skills and resources to make Scotland a more successful country. What we need now are the economic tools and powers to build a more competitive, dynamic economy and create more jobs.

“This guide contains policies which offer nothing less than a revolution in employment and social policy for Scotland, with a transformational change in childcare at the heart of those plans. Our proposals will make it far easier for parents to balance work and family life and will allow many more people, especially women, to move into the workforce, fostering economic growth and helping to boost revenues - which will in itself help pay for the policy.

“With these policies, we can begin the job of undoing the damage caused by the vast social disparities which have seen the UK become one of the most unequal societies in the developed world.

“And we believe it is only with the powers of Independence - by completing the powers of our national Parliament - that we will gain the tools we need to create a more prosperous and fairer society.”

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “We want as many people as possible across Scotland to read the guide and make up their own minds about Scotland’s future.

“This is an incredibly thorough and detailed guide, which includes 650 questions about an independent Scotland – and delivers on the answers.

“When it comes to social equality, health, quality of life and economic performance, Scotland has too often lagged behind the performance of our near neighbours across Northern Europe – many of them countries of similar size to Scotland.

“We know that Scotland has huge natural resources and enormous talent among our communities and our workforce – but only independence will give us the ability to make the most of our potential. This is an unprecedented chance to transform our country for the better. Our employment and social policy proposals contained in this guide, including the revolution in childcare, show what is possible.

“It illustrates how the powers of independence can be used to benefit individuals, families, communities and the nation as a whole - and it has economic growth, jobs and fairness at its heart.

“This is the only detailed plan for Scotland’s future, and today’s publication marks a decisive shift in the debate on what that future should be.”

Leading independent Scottish property consultancy CKD Galbraith is offering for sale Burton Cottage, an outstanding conversion of two traditional country cottages to form a wonderful family home with an excellent level of specification.

Burton Cottage is a truly wonderful conversion of two traditional stone cottages by Dawn Developments, available at offers over £495,000. Situated within a secluded, sheltered plot on the edge of the Carrick Hills, Burton Cottage enjoys fine country views yet is within walking distance of the amenities of Doonfoot and Ayr Shore.

The property extends to approximately 213 square meters and offers generously proportioned accommodation on one level. Glazed oak doors open to a spacious reception hall with bright aspects towards the patio at the rear and stream beyond.

The lounge is an equally bright room with double aspect windows.

The dining kitchen is the hub of the house and is fully fitted with a range of bespoke handmade units by Alno incorporating an induction hob, central island and granite worktops. Kardean flooring runs through the kitchen to the sun room which is a wonderfully relaxing area. Bi-folding doors form a bay window around the sun room opening to the landscaped gardens and ideal for summer entertaining.

Five bedrooms and a family bathroom complete the accommodation – two bedrooms have en suite shower rooms and all sanitary ware is Porcelanosa.

Burton Cottage occupies a sheltered plot of approximately one acre entered via electric gates which opens to a gravel sweep at the front of the house and lit by low level lighting. The gardens are fully landscaped and planted with a variety of shrubs and bushes. A large decked patio is enclosed and overlooks a small stream at the rear and in addition there is an integrated double garage with electric doors.

Burton Cottage is a luxurious country home formed from traditional cottages and enjoys all the benefits of rural living within easy reach of local amenities.

About CKD Galbraith

CKD Galbraith is an independent property consultancy employing 250 staff in offices in Edinburgh, Stirling, Perth, Cupar, Inverness, Aberfeldy, Castle Douglas, Ayr, Elgin, Galashiels, Kelso, Peebles, Alyth and Aberdeen.

The partnership provides the full range of property consulting services across the residential, commercial, rural and renewable energy sectors throughout Scotland. CKD Galbraith also enjoys a successful relationship with its associate firm in London, CKD Kennedy Macpherson.

www.ckdgalbraith.co.uk

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

By: Iain Ferguson

Ayr Racecourse has received a double boost on the sponsorship front.

Firstly it was announced William Hill have extended their sponsorship of the Ayr Gold Cup Festival by three years until September 2016 and then the QTS Group agreed to support sponsor Ladies Night at the track on 9 August next year in addition to sponsoring the Scottish Champion Hurdle in April.

[Jockey Oisin Murphy celebrates his triumph on his mount Highland Colon at the 2013 William Hill Gold Cup at Ayr Racecourse.]

William Hill have sponsored the festival since 2009 and during that time the fixture has grown in stature and this year the third and final day featuring the William Hill Ayr Gold Cup was for the first time Channel 4’s showcase meeting on the day.

The bookmaking giant initially signed a three year deal with Ayr Racecourse in 2009 and renewed that in 2011 with a two year deal that ended in September this year. This latest extension was welcomed by both parties.

The contract covers full naming rights of the Festival and sponsorships of the William Hill Ayr Gold Cup – Europe’s most valuable sprint handicap, the Silver and Bronze Cups, plus the Doonside Cup, Ayrshire Handicap and Kilkerran Cup.

Jennie Prest, Sponsorship & PR Manager for William Hill said: “We are delighted to be renewing our sponsorship of the Gold Cup Festival once again, and to be continuing our now long standing relationship with the team at Ayr Racecourse.

“Year-on-year the meeting is popular with both the punters, who love the challenge of the Bronze, Silver and Gold Cups and the racegoers, who are always treated to a superb Scottish welcome. We look forward to working alongside the course to ensure the meeting continues to be a success each year.”

Ayr Racecourse Chairman Alan Macdonald (pictured above) welcomed the extension and said: “William Hill and the Ayr Gold Cup Festival has proved to be a good fit and is now firmly established as one of the best working sponsorship partnerships in horse racing.

“By signing this three year extension both parties can look forward to continuing to work together to maintain and increase the profile of this marvellous three days of racing which is without doubt one of the highlights of the flat season in the UK.”

QTS first took naming rights to the glamorous Ladies Night at Ayr last year and prior to that sponsored a race on the card.

Based in Drumclog, Lanarkshire QTS was founded in 1992 originally as a tree surgeon business and now provides an extensive range of engineering infrastructure and training services to major organisations across the rail, utilities, construction and public sectors.

The group is also one of the UK’s largest providers of rail operations, working very closely with Network Rail and other major suppliers. With various engineering and infrastructure contracts, as well as providing market leading training courses, the company is a one stop shop for most business needs.

Alan McLeish (pictured above), MD of QTS Group commented: “We are really excited by the prospects of working with Ayr Racecourse for the upcoming year. The QTS Champion Hurdle was a great success this year and we are looking forward to repeating in 2014.

“When we signed up to sponsor Ladies Night this year we knew straightaway that this was a great social event and I’m proud to say that we will support the racecourse next year as we continue to sponsor Scotland’s premier ladies night.”

Alan Macdonald added: “I am naturally delighted that QTS are sponsoring both Ladies Night and the Scottish Champion Hurdle again next year. It further underlines the partnership we have built up.

“It is important we have high quality sponsors to help us provide the best racing and days out possible for our racegoers. Having a major company like QTS as sponsor is a huge boost.”

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 UK Government must take action to support a sustained economic recovery through additional capital investment, improved access to finance and no additional cuts to spending, Finance Secretary John Swinney has stated in a letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne.

Mr Swinney (pictured above) has written to the Chancellor ahead of the Autumn Statement on December 5. The letter highlights the Scottish Government’s rejection of Westminster’s approach to the economy and public finances and sets out a number of priorities that the Scottish Government believe should be addressed in the Autumn Statement.

The letter also warns the Chancellor that in-year budget cuts – as the UK Government has imposed in previous years – are not acceptable and that the Scottish budget agreed by Parliament should be respected.

Earlier this week the Scottish Government launched Scotland’s Future – Your Guide to an Independent Scotland, showing that with the full set of economic levers at its disposal Scotland would be able to build greater long-term economic security, growth and job opportunities.

Mr Swinney said: “The current Westminster system is fundamentally flawed and has created one of the largest gaps between rich and poor in the developed world.

“While we are now seeing promising signs of economic growth, the fact that Westminster is now forecast to borrow over £240 billion more between 2011-12 and 2015-16 than it initially planned in June 2010, underlines the failure of the UK Government’s approach to the economy.

“The Scottish Government is doing all it can, within its limited powers, to support Scottish finances. The latest Scottish GDP figures show the economy is growing 1.8 per cent, which is faster than the UK, while our employment, unemployment and inactivity rates are the strongest of the four nations of the UK.

“However, successive UK budgets and Autumn Statements have undermined the Scottish Government’s ability to support economic revival, particularly through the significant cuts the Chancellor has made to capital investment over the spending review period and, in some cases, the in-year reductions he has made to the Scottish Government’s published spending plans.

“The UK Government retains the right to take money out of our budget mid-year and has done so in the past. It is not only deeply damaging to our plans for investment and to our public services such cuts completely fail to respect devolution and I have urged the Chancellor to assure me that there will be no such cuts in the future.

“There remains a need for additional direct capital investment to support recovery, and it is vital to ensure small businesses have access to finance. There is also a need for serious investment in energy infrastructure over the coming years to help deliver renewable generation across Scotland and the UK. We believe beyond doubt that the current Electric Market Reform proposals risk failing Scotland and the UK in a number of vital areas, and present a huge risk to UK security of supply as well as to investor confidence and our low carbon ambitions.

“As Scotland’s Future shows, an independent Scotland could build a more sustainable economy by delivering an effective industrial strategy, boosting productivity and exports and increasing innovation and participation in the workforce.

“However, until Scotland decides on its future, it is essential that the Chancellor and the UK Government adopts a new approach to ensure that we see a sustained economic recovery, and that the benefits of this are widely shared.

The Finance Secretary has called on the Chancellor to:

• Provide assurance that there will be no more in-year cuts to the Scottish Budget. The March 2013 UK Budget applied reductions to the Scottish Government’s published spending plans for 2013-14 and 2014-15.

• Provide additional capital investment to support sustainable and broad-based economic recovery and make the country as a whole more internationally competitive.

• Invest in energy infrastructure to help deliver renewable generation across Scotland and the UK, arguing that the UK Government’s current proposals are putting the creation of a strong, domestic renewables sector and supply chain at risk, and could undermine Scotland’s security of supply.

• Make access to finance easier for SMEs across Scotland. In particular it is important that UK wide schemes – such as the Enterprise Finance Guarantee and Funding for Lending Scheme are readily accessible to Scottish businesses.

• Reconsider the UK Government’s decision not to pass on the full external convergence uplift to the Common Agricultural Policy budget to Scotland’s agricultural sector, despite the fact that this allocation is a result of Scotland having one of the lowest per hectare payment rates in the EU.

• Make sure the negative impacts of welfare reform are not exacerbated by further announcements made in the Autumn Statement. The Scottish Government has consistently highlighted its view that many of the changes being introduced as a result of the UK Government’s programme of welfare reform are set to impact on some of the most vulnerable in society, and will have a wide range of implications for the organisations helping those affected.

Leading independent Scottish property consultancy CKD Galbraith are offering for sale The Spott, Stewarton, Ayrshire, a lovely country house with generously proportioned accommodation, landscaped gardens, stabling and grazing land of approximately 10 acres.

The Spott is a superb extended farmhouse, available at Offers Over £550,000. Situated off a quiet country road yet close to the ever popular town of Stewarton The Spott commands fine views over its own landscaped gardens and the surrounding countryside.

The property has been thoroughly renovated and offers very flexible accommodation with an attached 3 bedroom cottage completed in 2000, which complements the accommodation of the main farmhouse. The Spott is well equipped offering a traditional farmhouse kitchen with gas range and a cosy sitting room with log burning stove. A split level lounge offers more formal accommodation and has an open fire and panoramic views. In addition there is a dining room, utility/pantry and a bedroom on the ground floor. Three further bedrooms and a shower room complete the accommodation on the first floor.

The Spott overlooks well tended gardens which have been carefully planted with a variety of trees and shrubs and a sheltered patio is a wonderful seating area to enjoy the views. A summer house and hot tub are located adjacent to the house. In addition The Spott offers excellent equestrian facilities which are practically designed with a separate entrance and a small turnout paddock. There are 5 stables in total, a hay store, shed and the thoughtful addition of a conservatory which adjoins the stables and provides a lovely relaxation area or a little warmth on a Winter’s day.

Grazing land of approximately 10 acres extends to the Cuts Burn on the northern boundary and is well fenced. The nearby Lainshaw Estate and Woodlands offer a network of quiet hacking routes.

The Spott offers all the benefits of rural living yet is within easy reach of Glasgow city centre and Glasgow International Airport.

About CKD Galbraith

For further information:

CKD Galbraith

7 Killoch Place

Ayr KA7 2EA

Ayrshire, Scotland

Contact: R A Cherry BSc MRICS

Tel: 01292 268181

Fax: 01292 292300

E-mail: bob.cherry@ckdgalbraith.co.uk

Web: http://www.ckdgalbraith.co.uk/

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

Leading Ayrshire solicitor Norman Geddes (pictured below), managing partner at Frazer Coogans Solicitors, is lending his support to a campaign urging the public to discuss the future with relatives who might be at risk of losing the capacity to make decisions about their care and welfare.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and Glasgow City Council want to persuade families to “start the conversation” with relatives about putting a Power of Attorney in place. A Power of Attorney is a signed and witnessed legal document which allows a relative or trusted friend to step in if the person executing it is taken ill and becomes unable to make the necessary decisions for him or herself.

It is understood that the lack of a Power of Attorney in place is responsible for delaying the discharge of many patients from hospital.

The lack of a Power of Attorney in place can also lead to financial difficulties for a person who becomes incapacitated and unable to operate their bank account. This is especially true for people who run their own business.

The awareness campaign includes three TV advertisements which started screening last Sunday featuring the actor Johnnie Beattie and his daughter Maureen, and broadcasting brothers Sanjeev and Hardeep Kohli.

A Power of Attorney is an authority given by an individual to another person or persons to deal with certain aspects of their affairs. The Power of Attorney can relate to financial and property matters, or personal welfare, or a combination of both.

Norman Geddes commented: “The vast majority of us realise the necessity of making financial provision for possible adverse future circumstances, most notably perhaps insuring the life of a family’s chief breadwinner.

“But other adverse circumstances which might occur in the future also include a person becoming physically or mentally incapable of making proper decisions about their financial affairs or how they can best be looked after.

“The best way to prepare for this possibility is to execute a Power of Attorney in favour of a trusted relative or friend.

“The process is straightforward and relatively inexpensive, but requires the advice and guidance of a qualified solicitor.

“The result is increased peace of mind about the future, and I am pleased to back this public awareness campaign by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and Glasgow City Council.”

For further information go to the Public Guardian (Scotland) website: CLICK HERE

Frazer Coogans Solicitors

Dalblair House

46 Dalblair Road

Ayr

KA7 1UQ

Contact: Austin Thomson

Tel: 01292 280499

Fax: 01292 611645

E-mail: Austin.thomson@frazercoogans.co.uk

Web: www.frazercoogans.co.uk

Frazer Coogans Solicitors is a Founder Member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

This coming Tuesday 10 December top chef Mafiz Ali will be hosting an evening of Christmas Carols by Candlelight at Ayr Spice Minishant Restaurant.

This event consists of a programme of carols followed by a buffet meal featuring both traditional Scottish and Indian / Bangladeshi cuisine.

Girvan Primary School Choir conducted by Wendy-Ann Wilson will perform two groups of carols and there will be five traditional community carols for all to sing as well.

The Choir will be accompanied by retired international concert pianist Jack McChesney.

All profits will go to West Sound Radio’s Cash for Kids Appeal.

Cash for Kids responds to the needs of children in our communities so they can live life to the full and realise their individual potential.

Based across 21 areas in the UK, at the heart of your favourite radio stations, we support children aged 0-18 who are disabled, disadvantaged or suffering from abuse or neglect.

www.cashforkids.uk.com

Tickets £13.95 each.

Booking essential for this event. Telephone Jack McChesney on 01292 281061 or mobile 07926 939566 or e-mail piano.vienna@btinternet.com

Ayr Spice Minishant Restaurant

Ayr Spice Indian Cuisine can be found in the fine old red sandstone Memorial church at the entrance to the picturesque village of Minishant, 5 miles south of Ayr on the A77. The church was erected by the thread magnate Sir Peter Coats of nearby Auchendrane, in loving memory of his wife Glorianna, who died in 1877.

Indian food can be simple or elaborate, humble or opulent, within a culinary tradition that is centuries old. The unique gift of Indian cuisine is its inspired use of exotic spices and the finest fresh ingredients. Proprietor Mafiz Ali and his team at Ayr Spice are determined to bring you the best of that tradition, and look forward to welcoming you.

Mafiz Ali

Ayr Spice Indian Restaurant

The Old Minishant Memorial Church

22 Ayr Road

Minishant

Ayrshire

KA19 8EX

Tel: 01292 441 413

Web: http://www.ayrspice.info

Ayr Spice Minishant Restaurant is a member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.

South Ayrshire Council announces X-citing line-up for Ayr Christmas lights switch-on

Plan to revitalise town centres launched in Kilmarnock

Soaring demand pushes house prices higher across Scotland

South Ayrshire honours The Royal Regiment of Scotland

Scotland Day in Doha

EnQuest to develop £4bn Kraken oil field off Shetland

Independence to transform Scotland’s economy

Business leader urges First Minister to encourage oil exploration off coastline of South West Scotland

CKD Galbraith offer for sale excellent small livestock farm in North Ayrshire

Turnberry appoints new Executive Chef

TV gardener Jim McColl launches renovation project at Ayr horticultural therapy garden for armed forces veterans

Scottish Government takes over Prestwick Airport

South Ayrshire Council celebrates Braehead Primary School modernisation

First Minister Alex Salmond launches blueprint for independent Scotland

CKD Galbraith offer luxurious family country home in South Ayrshire

Ayr Racecourse announces William Hill and QTS sponsorship extensions

Finance Secretary warns Chancellor against further cuts

CKD Galbraith offer Ayrshire country house with stables and grazing land

Leading Ayrshire solicitor backs campaign to increase public awareness about Power of Attorney

Chef Mafiz Ali to host Christmas Carols by Candlelight at Ayr Spice Minishant Restaurant