Ayrshire Scotland Business News

A couple from Ayr recently dropped into County Buildings in Ayr for a quick look around as part of a project to research their roots and ancestry. However, this was no ordinary fact finding visit, as Robert and Mary Thompson hail from Ayr – in North Dakota, USA!

[Pictured: Robert and Mary Thompson from Ayr, North Dakota, USA on their visit to County Buildings in Ayr, South Ayrshire, Scotland.]

The pair were touring South Ayrshire, keen to learn more about Robert’s great grandfather, who was born in this area in 1825, before emigrating to America in the mid-1800s.

Robert and Mary’s visit builds on a trip to Norway to explore Mary’s roots and they were both astonished by how warm and friendly their reception in South Ayrshire had been.

Robert said: “We were on the train coming to Ayr and the person behind us heard Mary and I talking. When we got off at the station, they came over to us and gave us a lift to our hotel.

“Everywhere we have gone, the people of South Ayrshire have been fantastic and we really feel that Ayr in Scotland has become a home from our home in Ayr, North Dakota.

Mary added: “Our Ayr has a population of just twenty people and everybody knows each other. Ayr in Ayrshire is much bigger but the people here have been so nice, it really does feel like we are among family and friends!”

Robert and Mary received a further surprise when Provost Helen Moonie took time to meet the couple, offering them a brief tour of the building and posing for photographs.

[Pictured: Provost Helen Moonie (centre) met Robert and Mary Thompson from Ayr, North Dakota, USA, during their visit to Ayr, South Ayrshire.]

Provost Moonie said: “Robert and Mary have come a very long way to visit Ayr and I’m overjoyed they found our legendary South Ayrshire welcome to be every bit as warm and hospitable as they hoped it would be.

“I trust they will return to Ayr in North Dakota having had a wonderful time with us here, taking back many happy memories and tales from their time in Ayr, South Ayrshire.”

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

Leading independent Scottish property consultancy CKD Galbraith is offering for sale an elegant Victorian mansion in Ayrshire located in a pleasant situation in the Irvine Valley in the town of Newmilns, East Ayrshire.

Newmilns Town Centre is designated an Outstanding Conservation Area and there are a number of listed buildings including the Newmilns Keep, the town’s oldest building dating from the 1530s. There were 32 factories producing lace in Newmilns and Darvel in the early 1900s, today there is just one. The magnificent Lanfine Estate with tree lined avenues is nearby.

Glenrosa is a beautiful merchant’s house, built in 1885 and undoubtedly one of the area’s finest Victorian properties. The property stands amidst its own walled gardens which extend down to the River Irvine and includes a small paddock of just under half an acre.

The property offers generously proportioned accommodation including a first floor drawing room, formal dining room and original billiard room with a glass domed cupola.

Open fires, ornate cornicing and rich wood panelling create a wonderful atmosphere and more subtle features such as cast iron radiators and original brass handles have been carefully maintained throughout the house.

Despite its many original features Glenrosa is first and foremost a wonderful family home and offers four good sized bedrooms (one of which has an en suite bathroom and located on the ground floor) and two cosy sitting rooms. The kitchen opens to a utility room and in addition there is a laundry room and pantry.

To the rear of the house is a fabulous original conservatory with a mosaic tiled floor and patent-glazed roof with automatic temperature controlled roof vents. Double doors open from the conservatory to a sheltered terrace.

Glenrosa stands proud within its own gardens which reflect the care and attention to detail of the house itself. Well-tended lawns are bounded by a variety of trees and shrubs and over 140 varieties of rhododendrons and azaleas provide a blaze of seasonal colour. A range of traditional outbuildings include a six-car garage, greenhouse, tool shed, potting shed and a wood store.

All in Glenrosa offers practical family accommodation together with a slice of history and is situated within a village environment yet easy reach of Glasgow.

Offers Over £450,000 are being sought.

PDF available on www.ckdgalbraith.co.uk

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

By: Iain Ferguson

ONE of Scotland's biggest wedding events, the Ayrshire Wedding Show takes place in the Princess Royal Events Centre at Ayr Racecourse this weekend Saturday 25 January and Sunday 26 January.

Now in its ninth year there will be up to 90 exhibitors providing a wide range of services including videographers, photographers, wedding cake specialists, formal wear suppliers, bands, pipers, linen hire, wedding car companies, owl displays and many, many more.

In addition to the wide range of wedding related goods on show there will also be a Catwalk Show on the first floor of the Centre with professional mannequins modelling the latest in bridal wear for brides, grooms, bridesmaids and all connected with the wedding. There will be four shows at regular intervals on both days.

Sponsored by AMD Photography & AMD Videography, the Scottish Wedding Directory and Platinum Linen, the Show is expected to attract more than 3500 visitors over the weekend.

For more information visit the website:

www.ayrshireweddingshow.co.uk or telephone 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 village of Alloway again got a real flavour of life from yesteryear when the sixth annual Alloway 1759 returned, celebrating the life and times of Rabbie Burns in South Ayrshire.

The five-day celebration again welcomed singer-songwriter Eddi Reader MBE, who headlined the Robert Burns Humanitarian Concert on Wednesday 22 Jan 2014 at Ayr Town Hall, an event which also featured a host of local talent, including Little Fire and Milla Crann, Jemma Kate, Sean Kennedy and Eilidh Grant.

The concert paid homage to the prestigious Robert Burns Humanitarian Award (presented at a special invitational event on Saturday 25 January 2014).

Speaking in Alloway during the celebrations, Provost Helen Moonie said: “Alloway 1759 is now in its sixth year – having been created to mark original Year of Homecoming in 2009, an event being repeated in 2014.

“During this year of homecoming, we will also be celebrating Burns in the Burns an’ a’ That! Festival in May as well as offering a series of themed Burns events across the year.

“All of these are form part of the Year of Homecoming’s South West programme making the whole region home to a series of vibrant events, festivals, exhibitions and attractions which all celebrate the life, times and legacy of Robert Burns.”

Events and experiences in 2014 included the christening of Burns’ twins Robert and Jean, an Auld Alloway Ghost Walk, a special photobox, where you could go back in time to have your photo taken in 1759 and, of course, the world haggis hurling championships – won again by Gary McClay (23) – who improved on his 158 foot effort of last year, with an impressive throw of 188 feet.

The pupils of Forehill Primary presented the Alloway Rap – a re-boot of Burns’ classic poem ‘Tam O'Shanter’, Rozelle House stepped back in time to see the Hamilton family welcome guests and history buffs enjoyed a Jacobean adventure in Alloway Church, following in the footsteps of Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Also popular were the many stalls, offering some of South Ayrshire’s finest produce, the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra who entertained and led the dances, helping to keep people’s toes tapping, the Ayrshire Farmers Market and, for the younger visitors, a new Super Burns Supper proved to be an enticing and exciting mix of fun, games and quizzes!

Provost Moonie concluded: “Year on year, Alloway 1759 has grown in size, scope and popularity and I cannot think of a better way to pay tribute to Rabbie, than by celebrating his legacy here in the heart of the village that was his home.

“I've no doubt Rabbie would have approved and as the events, poetry, music and dances took place, I’m convinced he was with us in spirit enjoying every minute!”

www.alloway1759.com

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

RICS UK Commercial Market Survey, Q4 2013

As 2013 drew to a close, tenant demand for shops, offices and industrial units experienced growth, as increasing optimism about the economy and more accessible lending filtered through to the commercial sector.

After difficult times within the sector in Scotland, retail has begun to see some signs of an improvement as a net balance of 46 percent more chartered surveyors reported a rise in enquiries to invest in retail space. This looks set to continue with responses suggesting a further increase in expected volume of retail transactions over the next quarter (43 percent).

Sarah Speirs, Director RICS Scotland, commented: “The Scottish economy ended 2013 on a much more positive note and this was reflected in stronger demand from tenants for shops, offices and industrial space. The more upbeat picture is even beginning to filter through to rents and investment, although the improvements are still tentative at this stage.

"The shift in the retail market has been largely driven by the improved fortunes of the consumer and this is now feeding through, slowly but evidently, to high street. Should the economic momentum continue to gather pace we would expect the recovery in the commercial property market to gain further traction, particularly if interest rates remain on hold.”

Despite growing demand, a net balance of 33 percent of respondents reported a decline availability of commercial property which in part reflects the lack of new developments in recent years as bank finance has dried up.

Alan Gilkison MRICS, Ryden LLP, Glasgow, commented: “The greatest activity remains in the prime locations with acute shortages of smaller properties, however, there are signs of growing interest for new build solutions given the absence of suitable stock.”

By: Iain Ferguson

JOCKEY Brian Harding continued his fine vein of form when riding a double at Ayr Racecourse on Monday.

Brian, one of the most experienced riders in the UK, partnered Oil Burner (11/1) to win The Non-Runner No Bet Championship Races At Cheltenham Handicap for trainer Willie Amos. The horse powered clear from the last to win by 10 lengths from the Jim Goldie trained Too Cool To Fool (5/1).

And win number two came in the feature race, the Back Of The Net At BetVictor.com Handicap Chase, when the Nicky Richards trained And The Man (7/2) won by three and a quarter lengths from See Double You.

[Pictured: And The Man jumps into the lead at the last fence at Ayr on Monday in the hands of Brian Harding.]

There were wins too for trainers Lucinda Russell and Jim Goldie. Lucinda’s Final Assault (7/4) was left clear in the hands of jockey Peter Buchanan when the Lucy Alexander ridden The Orange Rogue fell at the last in the maiden hurdle.

Jim Goldie’s success came courtesy of Plus Jamais (9/4 fav) for jockey Brian Hughes in the Cheltenham 2014 NRFB At BetVictor.com Handicap Hurdle.Rebecca Menzies, saddled her first Ayr winner as a trainer with Chavoy (16/1) ridden by her boyfriend Tony Kelly in the Download The BetVictor App Now Handicap Hurdle.

Ayr’s next meeting is on Tuesday 11 February. For more information or to buy tickets 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.

Ahead of WWF’s annual Earth Hour on 29 March 2014, South Ayrshire Council is celebrating after once again being named as WWF’s Earth Hour Local Authority Champion for 2013. This is the first time a local authority has won the award two years in a row.

[Pictured with the WWF panda and the 2013 national Award are (left) Councillor John McDowall, Portfolio Holder for Sustainability, and Callum Robertson, Environment and Climate Change Officer, South Ayrshire Council.]

WWF’s Earth Hour is a global event and last year saw hundreds of millions of people around the world take part to raise awareness of climate change.

Councillor John McDowall accepted the award after the Council was recognised for doing the most of all 32 local authorities in Scotland to support Earth Hour in 2013. The Council’s efforts included switching off feature lighting on 14 of the areas most iconic landmarks, a ghost walk around Ayr and golfing in the dark at Troon. Employees, partners, community groups and local businesses across South Ayrshire to sign up and switch off.

This year’s Earth Hour will take place at 8.30pm on 29 March 2014, and is a powerful way to highlight that climate change is one of the most serious threats to our planet.

After accepting the award Councillor McDowall said: “I would like to thank everyone who took part in Earth Hour and showed that our local authority and the people of South Ayrshire recognise the danger climate change poses to our planet.

“People celebrated Earth Hour in many different ways including switching off lights, holding Earth Hour parties, organising or attending events and generally celebrating the night.

“This year, we’d like to see more people than ever before in South Ayrshire make their own champion effort to switch lights off for an hour between 8.30pm and 9.30pm on 29 March 2014.

“We will be supporting the campaign and have already been awarded a ‘Super Local Authority’ badge for our proposed plan involving switching off many of our landmark buildings feature lights, a night cycle, ghost walk and more golfing in the dark. We encourage people from across South Ayrshire to take part, get involved, and make the darkest hour, South Ayrshire’s brightest.”

Lang Banks, Director of WWF Scotland, said: “I’m absolutely delighted that South Ayrshire Council has won our Earth Hour Local Authority Champion title for the second year in a row.

“This award clearly demonstrates the massive commitment of the Council and its residents to protecting our brilliant planet. We look forward to working with our newly crowned Champions for Earth Hour 2014 in March and encourage everyone to add their voice to the millions taking part across the globe at our website www.wwfscotland.org.uk/earthhour.”

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

First Minister welcomes positive numbers
in his Chinese new year message

By: Murdoch MacDonald

Exports from Scotland to China were at their highest ever level in 2013, totalling almost £560 million.

Latest figures from the Global Connections Survey have shown a rise in food and drink exports and in sectors such as chemicals and engineering, contributing to a total increase of 30 per cent from the previous year.

[Click on image above to view video.]

First Minister Alex Salmond announced the new figures in his Chinese new year message heralding the arrival of the year of the horse, noting that ‘the strength of the ties’ between Scotland and China will allow the solid economic link between the two countries to continue to flourish for decades to come.

Mr Salmond said: “As we say farewell to the year of the snake, and look forward to the year of the horse, a very lucky year coming ahead, I’d like to wish a very happy new year to the people of China and Chinese people everywhere.

“Just three months ago I visited Beijing and Hong Kong. It was my fourth visit to China as First Minister. Once again, I saw the strength of the ties and growing relationship between our two countries.

“During the visit, eight Scottish companies signed agreements with Chinese firms in sectors such as digital technology and oil and gas. Eight is a lucky number in China; 88 has been doubly lucky for Scotland. Our exports to China have increased by 88 per cent in five years. Our Global Connections Survey this week reported a 30 per cent increase between 2011 and 2012 alone. It is clear that China sees Scotland, the land of invention, as an important business partner.

“But our friendship is based on far more than economics. Just two years ago, we welcomed Tian Tian and Yang Guang, our giant pandas, to Edinburgh Zoo, more than a million people have now been to see them.

“We have strong cultural links. A team from Historic Scotland has used technological expertise of Scotland to create a digital record of China’s Eastern Qing Tombs.

“During the summer, a spectacular exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland will showcase the achievements of the Ming dynasty. And in the same year that those treasures from China come to Scotland, three of our performing companies, Scottish Ballet, the Chamber Orchestra and the National Theatre of Scotland will go on tours of China and Hong Kong.

“And there are close ties between our educational institutions. Heriot Watt recently signed an agreement to become the fifth Scottish University to establish a Confucius Institute. More than 8,000 people from China now study at our universities and colleges.

“Many schools, as well as universities, are holding special events to mark Chinese new year. Some are hosting traditional art workshops. Others will go to Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall, to see a special concert from a Chinese children’s choir. St Ninian’s High School in Giffnock, which won a global award last month at the World Confucius Institute Conference in Beijing, is planning a celebration of Chinese dance, music and songs.

“It’s a great sign for the future that young people in Scotland are learning about China, and that young people from China are learning about, and studying in, Scotland. It means that we can look forward to many more years of co-operation between our two nations. And it shows that the friendship between Scotland and China will continue to flourish, during this year of the horse, and for decades to come.

“So as First Minister of Scotland, I would like to wish all of you a very happy new year.”

Key facts:

• New data from the Global Connections Survey shows that exports from Scotland to China in 2012 were up over 30% to £560 million, compared to 2011 when they were £425 million.

• From 2007 – 2012 the share of Scottish exports to China has also increased from 1.9 per cent to 2.6 per cent of Scottish exports. Source: HMRC, Regional Trade Statistics

• There has been a significant export growth in the last five years. Food increased by 343 per cent to £19.5 million, beverages increased by 78 per cent to £73 million and machinery and transport equipment increased by 77 per cent to £249 million. Source: HMRC, Regional Trade Statistics

• Chinese visitors brought £29m into the Scottish economy in 2010-12 (Source: Office for National Statistics’ International Passenger Survey)

• Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Strathclyde and Heriot-Watt Universities all have Confucius Institute Status.

Full details of Scottish productions in the Far East:

• Scottish Ballet are touring their production of Matthew Bourne’s ‘Highland Fling’ to Hong Kong from 21-24 February 2014.

• The Scottish Chamber Orchestra are planning a tour of the Far East including a performance at the Cultural Centre, as part of Hong Kong Arts Festival, on 20 and 21 February 2014.

• ‘Dragon,’ a co-production between the National Theatre Scotland, Vox Motus and Tianjin People’s Art Theatre will premier in June 2014.

• The Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of David Greig’s sequel to Macbeth, ‘Dunsinane,’ will tour Shanghai and Hong Kong in Spring 2014.

By: Iain Ferguson

SOME exciting racing is in prospect at Ayr Racecourse on Tuesday 11 February with the seven-race Valentine’s Raceday.

A total of £37,000 in prize money is on offer with some top northern jockeys including Jason Maguire, Brian Harding and Peter Buchanan likely to be in action.

The feature race is the £12,000 BetVictor’s Live Casino Handicap Chase, a class 3 contest over two miles four furlongs at 4.30pm which should attract some decent handicappers for what is a good midweek prize.

Main supporting race is The Back Of The Net At BetVictor.com Novices’ Chase over two miles five furlongs and due off at 3.25pm. The opening race is at 1.50pm with gates open at 11.50am and the final race of the afternoon is at 5.00pm.

This is the first of two February meetings at the Craigie track as the build-up continues to the Coral Scottish Grand National Festival at the course on Friday 11 April and Saturday 12 April.

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

Scotland’s leading property consultancy, CKD Galbraith has experienced some encouraging signs in the Ayrshire property market over the last quarter and predicts a positive outlook for the year ahead.

Bob Cherry (pictured above), of CKD Galbraith’s Ayr office, believes now is a good time to be putting properties on the market prior to the traditional spring selling season and outlines some top tips and expert advice for home owners who may be considering selling their property.

During 2013, the firm saw an increase of 34 per cent of properties sold, with an average property value of £422,127, which was an increase of £25,250 on the previous year. Prices achieved were on average within 0.5 per cent of the asking price highlighting the firm’s expertise in setting accurate property valuations.

The firm has experienced an improvement in the Ayrshire property market over the last quarter (Oct – Dec 213) completing 25 per cent more sales compared to the previous quarter of 2013 with the average property value achieved being £318,000 up from £295,000.

Bob Cherry said: “Over the last quarter we have seen an increase in business across all our offices in Scotland and we believe that this is set to continue throughout the spring months. Compared to the last quarter of 2012, we have witnessed a surge in the number of viewings and prospective buyers registering with us in Ayr.

“Although the Ayrshire market has been somewhat slow in comparison to other regions, we believe it will pick up throughout 2014 and are looking forward to a more confident and active property market on the back of our improved figures experienced last quarter.

“We would encourage early action this year as the Scottish independence referendum is likely to cause a slight slowdown in the property market in the months leading up to the poll itself, a traditional trend which is experienced in any General Election year.

“However, there is no doubt that the Government Help to Buy scheme is assisting first time buyers trying to get onto the property ladder and consequently this is helping to revitalise the market. Furthermore, as a firm we don’t expect the new mortgage lending rules, set to be introduced in April through the Mortgage Market Review (MMR), to be something to worry about and in fact the Council of Mortgage Lenders predicts that mortgage lending will grow to £195 billion in 2014, up 15 per cent on last year’s figures.

“The forecast is bright for those looking to sell in the coming months but selecting an agent with accurate knowledge of the market in order to set a prudent price and give honest advice is of paramount importance.”

Preparing your property for the market needs some considerable thought. Bob outlines some expert advice to bear in mind and help your property attract the interest it merits:

•Price is one of the most decisive factors so keep your eye on the competition. It’s imperative to conduct some thorough research of your own to ensure you’re well placed in 2014’s competitive market.

•Look at your house objectively and ask yourself what the deciding factors that drew you to the property were. Once the unique selling points of the property have been identified make sure they stand out.

•It’s true that first impressions do count for everything! Buyers have often made up their mind on a house within five minutes, so dressing your house well and making it clear that each room has a function will go a long way to establishing a good impression.

• It’s also important that outside spaces and gardens are well presented and appear as spacious as possible. This counts inside the house as well – spend time de-cluttering rather than costly alterations such as a new bathroom.

•Choose the right agent for you and your property. A good agent will be able to give you realistic advice on the local and national market. Investing in your agent will allow you to reap the rewards with dramatic increases in viewers and getting the best price possible for your property. With this in mind, trust your agent’s expertise and try to leave the negotiations to them.

•Finally, try to keep calm throughout the whole process; a viewer will enjoy visiting a house with a happy atmosphere and an owner who does not seem desperate to sell.

About CKD Galbraith

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.

Councillor Robin Reid hosted a civic reception on behalf of South Ayrshire Council to welcome Nan McCreadie, the first female President of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland, back to South Ayrshire, and to congratulate her on becoming the first female president.

[Pictured: Councillor Robin Reid welcomes Nan McCreadie and fellow Rotarians to the County Buildings.]

Councillor Robin Reid said: “Nan has strong links with South Ayrshire and it is great that a South Ayrshire woman has become the first female president of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland.

“A global humanitarian organisation, with five clubs in South Ayrshire, the members give up their free time to enhance the lives of others in our communities.

“I know that Nan will make a great contribution to the organisation and guide it well.”

William H Campbell, District Secretary of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland said: “The president of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland, Nan McCreadie, visited Rotary District 1230 (West of Scotland) during which visit she was presented with a quaich by South Ayrshire Council to mark the centenary of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland and in recognition of the fact that she is the first female president of the organisation. Nan was born and brought up in Ayrshire, attending Ayr Academy as a pupil.”

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

The Ayrshire Association of Business Women (AABW) has announced an extension of the ‘Women in Enterprise’ initiative, launched in August 2013, by providing sponsorship for eight new female entrepreneurs.

Led by entrepreneur Marie Macklin (pictured above), CEO of the Klin Group, the scheme commits to helping businesswomen develop their business networks and provides access to expert, practical advice and guidance.

In 2013, Marie funded membership of the AABW for six women and has acted as a sponsor, providing mentoring sessions and advice throughout the year. She will fund a further eight women this month, and aims to welcome 25 women in total in the first year of this successful initiative.

A diverse range of women has been selected for the scheme, with businesses ranging from a mortgage and financial services business to a designer home furnishings boutique. The women receiving sponsorship are:

• Angela Fisk - Mortgage Services

• Isabel McNicoll - The Business Timesaver Ltd

• Louise McCarron - Get2Grips with Grants

• Debbie Hay - The Dust Fairy

• Fiona Ritchie - HouseShape

• Carol Spier - Many Thanks Gift Shop

• Amy O’Farrell - Amy’s O’florals

• Sandra Patterson - KidsBeeHappy

The ‘Women in Enterprise’ scheme is currently being piloted in Ayrshire. However, Marie hopes that the concept will be adopted by other established entrepreneurs and replicated across Scotland.

She said: “I am delighted to continue sponsorship of the Women in Enterprise initiative with the AABW and look forward to welcoming eight new entrepreneurs this month. The six women who joined the scheme last year are going from strength to strength and I know they appreciate the benefits of being involved. I am pleased to confirm that by August this year, I will have welcomed 25 women in total to the Women in Enterprise initiative. I strongly believe in nurturing talent and providing opportunities to help individuals, their businesses and ideas to flourish, and the ‘Women in Enterprise’ scheme provides the support network and advice to effectively encourage this.”

Liz Cooper, President of the Ayrshire Association of Business Women, said: “The Ayrshire Association of Business Women is proud and delighted to be part of this pioneering initiative, and we warmly welcome the eight new Women in Enterprise participants to our group. Marie’s vision and dedication to supporting fellow women entrepreneurs is reflected in AABW’s own determination to support and encourage Ayrshire businesswomen and we are thrilled to see the initiative enter its second phase. Each and every member of AABW, be they long standing or new, greatly enriches our association and in this, our 20th year, we look forward to welcoming new and familiar faces to our varied programme of events.”

The Ayrshire Association of Business Women is Ayrshire’s leading business, entrepreneurial and professional women’s group, with members from a wide range of industries, sectors and backgrounds. The Association meets monthly with a diverse programme of inspirational speakers, workshops and networking opportunities throughout the year.

Marie Macklin is an entrepreneur and CEO of The Klin Group, which engages in economic and social transformation in Scotland and manages a portfolio of international property investments. Since 1988, Marie has progressed the company from property construction into land investment and property regeneration. Engaging local communities in planning transformation is fundamental to Marie’s business philosophy. Marie has also recently been appointed Board Member of Ayrshire College and works with local schools and aspiring young business people to encourage new generations of entrepreneurs, sharing business knowledge and providing advice and financial support for initiatives which motivate young people.

Leading Scottish property consultancy CKD Galbraith will host their 2014 Agricultural Update in Western House Hotel, Ayr on Wednesday 19 February.

The update is entitled “Planning for your future” and takes the form of a play set around a traditional farmhouse kitchen table and performed by a cast of rural specialists from CKD Galbraith, accountants Johnston Carmichael and law firm Ledingham Chalmers.

The play covers issues of relevance to family farms including succession planning, contract farming, inheritance tax, partnership structures and planning for retirement and afterwards there will be a chance to put your questions to the expert cast.

Robert Taylor (pictured above) – partner from CKD Galbraith’s Ayr office - is among those putting his acting talents on show and said: “It’s never too early to take advice on issues like succession planning.

“We hope that by setting the play in the familiar surroundings of the farmhouse kitchen that we’ll be able to help explain these complex issues in a way which is relevant and recognisable to farmers and will make for an entertaining as well as an informative evening.”

The seminar is free to attend with doors opening at 6.00pm and the presentation beginning at 6.30pm. Tea and coffee will be served after the presentation. If you will be attending the seminar please RSVP to Joanna Graham at CKD Galbraith on 01292 292534 or joanna.graham@ckdgalbraith.co.uk or join the event on Facebook at www.facebook.com/events/644917078901643/

For updates from the CKD Galbraith Rural team follow @ckdgrural on Twitter.

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

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.

South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie has attended the 30th annual town twinning Burns Supper in the French town of Saint Germain-en-Laye with members of the Ayr Town Twinning Association.

“The most successful town twinning event I've been to!” she said.

With over 300 tickets for the event sold out in advance – with a long waiting list – Provost Moonie attended the event along with a party of 22 from South Ayrshire, which included town twinning representatives from Ayr and members of the Ayrshire Fiddle orchestra Pictured below), who played songs by Burns and traditional Scottish music to the enthusiasm and delight of their French audience.

Ayr Town Twinning Association (ATTA) was founded in 1984 with the aim of fostering and encouraging links between individuals and groups in Ayr and St Germain-en-Laye, near Paris, Ayr’s twin town.

Traditionally, members make friends with French people with similar interests and visit for short periods, staying in family homes as guests, not as tourists, and visits are then reciprocated by French guests, who come to Ayr. The annual Burns supper has grown in size and scope and is now an anticipated and well-loved part of both associations’ calendar.

Provost Helen Moonie said: “Burns would have loved the idea of twin towns and he’d have embraced the fraternity and kinship all of this involved. He'd have been overjoyed to see Ayr and St Germain marking the 30th Burns Supper in his memory and his honour.

“Building on the superb relationships and traditions the Ayr and St Germain Town Twinners have developed, I’ve been working to develop wider economic, tourism, leisure and sporting opportunities between both associations and areas.

“In addition to the ongoing and highly successful educational exchange visits we already enjoy, rugby and tennis events are in the pipeline and, tapping into the rich musical heritage of both areas, plans are already well advanced to host choral and musical events to showcase both cultures locally.

“The opportunities also exist to develop commercial links between St Germain and Ayr and I'm confident we can bring businesses in both areas together, sharing ideas and working together to benefit both our local economies.”

Provost Moonie concluded: “It’s clearly an exciting time for town twinning as we begin to realise the true potential and power of such arrangements, over and beyond the traditional exchange visits and occasional cultural events.

“Just as Burns urged us to ‘ne’er forgot the people,’ I'm confident our associations will make sure we ne’er forget him – and will continue working together to find common ground in developing the commercial, cultural and tourist potential we have in common, for the benefit of all our residents.”

www.saintgermainenlaye.eu/en/

www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk

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

By: Iain Ferguson

GRAND National winning jockey Ryan Mania, racing legend Peter Scudamore and Scotland’s leading National Hunt trainer Lucinda Russell head the line up for a special Cheltenham Preview Dinner at Western House, Ayr Racecourse on Friday 7 March.

[Pictured: Peter Scudamore and Lucinda Russell.]

The stellar line up will discuss the leading races at Cheltenham and with all three participating at the Festival in one form or another a fascinating night is in prospect.

The charity event is being organised as a fund for Debra Scotland, the charity which works on behalf of people with the genetic skin blistering condition Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB).

Borders born Ryan Mania leapt to prominence last April when he rode Auroras Encore to victory in the Grand National at Aintree (pictured above). He is currently enjoying his best ever season having ridden 36 winners to date. He will have several fancied mounts at Cheltenham.

Lucinda Russell trained Brindisi Breeze to win the Albert Bartlett Hurdle at Cheltenham in 2011 and is firmly established as Scotland’s leading jumps trainer and is on course to beat Lenny Lungo’s all-time record of 63 winners trained in a season. Lucinda will have several Cheltenham runners.

Lucinda’s assistant trainer and partner Peter Scudamore is an eight time Champion Jockey and rode two Champion Hurdle winners at Cheltenham and also a Queen Mothers Chase winner.

Announcing the event, Jaye Hamilton, Fund Raising Manager Scotland for DEBRA said: “DEBRA is delighted to be given this opportunity to host a fundraising dinner in such eminent company from the world of racing. We are delighted that Lucinda, Peter and Ryan have given up their time to share their expertise with our guests.”

Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) is a group of genetic disorders that result in fragility of the skin and, in some cases, other internal membranes and organs. Blisters, open wounds and sores form as a result of the slightest touch, rub or trauma.

EB is likely to affect 1 in 17,000 live births and it is estimated that there are currently 5,000 people with the condition in the UK.

Tables for the event are available at £750 for a table of 10 or £1000 per table including full drinks package.

For information or to book a table call Jaye Hamilton on 01698 424210 or email jaye.hamilton@debra.org.uk

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

RICS UK Residential Market Survey, January 2014

During January, the number of houses coming onto the market for sale in Scotland remained steady, says the RICS January Residential Market Survey.

Last month a net balance of 27 percent more chartered surveyors reported an increase in new instructions. Despite this, the amount of potential buyers continued to surge ahead of supply for the ninth consecutive month, with a net balance of 37 percent of respondents reporting a growth in demand. However, some surveyors note that supply is expected to increase as we enter the traditional ‘spring bounce’.

With the gap between steady supply and rising demand not seeing any considerable change, house prices continued to grow. During January, a net balance of 38 percent more respondents across Scotland reported an increase in prices, with the cost of a home now rising since May 2013.

Chartered surveyors also noted the continued positive impact of the Home Report on the housing market in Scotland, with 78 percent of respondents reporting that it has reduced the need for multiple surveys.

Sarah Speirs, Director RICS Scotland, commented: “Prices are on the up in Scotland and this is driven largely by a lack of properties coming onto the market. With a growing number of people now in a position to buy a home, there are simply not enough properties to satisfy demand. The upshot of this is that prices are increasing in many areas. However, RICS members do expect an increase in supply in the coming months as the traditional spring bounce begins to take effect.

“RICS Scotland continues to work closely with the Scottish Housing Commission to address the issues of housing supply and demand in Scotland. The Commission’s findings will be published in April 2014.”

Looking ahead, the more positive outlook continues with a net balance of 49 percent more chartered surveyors predicting transaction numbers in Scotland to increase over the coming three months, while expectations for future prices are also strongly positive.

Kevin J MacDonald, Graham + Sibbald, Inverness, commented: “Momentum has been maintained during January which is indicative of rising confidence with competitive bids, closing dates and more encouraging prices.”

Primary school children in Kirkmichael have fallen head over heels in love with their brand new school, built by South Ayrshire Council on the site of the old Kirkmichael primary school and opened last week (Wednesday 12 February) by Councillor Margaret Toner, Portfolio Holder for Lifelong Learning.

[Pictured: Councillor Margaret Toner helps the school’s youngest pupil Liam Harris and the oldest pupil Laura Rowney cut the ribbon and declare Kirkmichael primary school open. Also pictured at the school head teacher Karen Butchart, local councillor Brian Connolly and school chaplain Reverend Gerald Jones.]

Construction has taken just over a year, and excited children and eager teachers have now moved to the new school from their temporary location at McCosh Hall, where lessons had been delivered during construction of the new school.

[Pictured: Glad to be going to school! It was a short walk from McCosh Hall to the new Kirkmichael primary school for these excited pupils.]

The old school building had been constructed in the 1970s and was no longer fit to meet the demands of a 21st century education – and it was decided that a new school building was the best option.

Councillor Toner said: “It was a sheer delight to see the joy on the children’s faces today as they went into the new school. This project clearly demonstrates our commitment to rural education and I am absolutely thrilled to see Kirkmichael primary school open – it really is a fantastic building.

“It is light and spacious and has been thoughtfully designed to maximise the space on the old school site, with brilliantly equipped classrooms and a superb lifelong learning facility on offer to the whole community.

“Add to that a spacious assembly and dining area, first-class games areas and changing facilities and we have an exceptional resource in the heart of Kirkmichael which will benefit the whole community, with secure access for the community to use the lifelong learning room when not in use by children.

[Pictured: Up, up and away! The future looks bright for the pupils and staff at Kirkmichael primary school.]

Head Teacher Karen Butchart added: “It’s been very exciting to watch the new school being built, and we are all thrilled to have moved into this fantastic building.

“The new facilities and improved opportunities offered by our new school will make a big difference for pupils, with purpose-built modern facilities that will really help us deliver Curriculum for Excellence.

“It was wonderful to see the children’s faces as they came into the school for the first time and I know we’re all going to be very happy in this great new school!”

Kirkmichael primary school is the second new rural school in South Ayrshire, constructed less than two years after the completion of Colmonell primary, which opened in 2012.

Councillor Toner continued: “Our £2.3 million investment in this new school will deliver a huge boost to learning in the local area and I hope it will become a well-used and important community focal point delivering high-quality modern learning in a superb educational environment.

“Most importantly of all, the young people – and our staff – love it!”

By: Iain Ferguson

CHAMPION jockey AP McCoy was in double winning form at Ayr Racecourse last week riding the first two winners on the card.

He had an easy time on board Stonebrook (8/11 fav) home in the famous JP McManus silks for trainer Donald McCain in the Maiden Hurdle, and then followed that with another impressive win on Layla Joan (5/4 fav) in the two mile five and a half furlong novice hurdle for Irish trainer Gordon Elliott.

W Six Times, trained by Alistair Whillans and ridden by his nephew Callum was returned at 8/1 for the conditional jockeys’ handicap hurdle scoring by seven lengths from Ancient Times (6/1) ironically the horse that beat her over the course last time out.

[Pictured: And The Man, ridden by Brian Harding clears the last en route to winning the feature race at Ayr Racecourse last week.]

Nicky Richards’ eight year old gelding And The Man, the 11/4 favourite, won the feature race of the afternoon, the BetVictor’s Live Casino Handicap Chase over two and a half miles in the hands of Brian Harding. The horse has now won four times at the course.

Heritage Way (5/1), trained by Stuart Crawford in Larne, Northern Ireland and ridden by his brother Steven won the concluding bumper, keeping up the outfit’s great record at Ayr.

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

An Ayrshire wide celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Ayrshire Hospice, jointly hosted by North, South and East Ayrshire Councils, was held at the Walker Halls in Troon. The guests enjoyed an afternoon tea to mark the occasion.

[Pictured (left to right): Mandy Yule Chief Executive Ayrshire Hospice, South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie, Dr Kirsty Muirhead Lead Consultant Ayrshire Hospice, North Ayrshire Provost Joan Sturgeon and Deputy Provost of East Ayrshire John Campbell.]

On behalf of the Ayrshire Councils South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie welcomed everyone to the reception to mark the outstanding achievements of the Ayrshire Hospice.

North Ayrshire Schools Concert Band and the North Ayrshire Schools Senior Choir provided entertainment for the guests.

South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie said: “25 years ago there was no Ayrshire Hospice and people across Ayrshire were working very hard to raise funds to establish the hospice. Since being established the hospice has grown physically, with facilities that we could only dream of many years ago. Importantly the main thing that has grown is its reputation for the care, attention and support it gives to the people it cares for, their friends and families.”

North Ayrshire Provost Joan Sturgeon said: “The Ayrshire Hospice is a wonderful facility which has earned the respect and gratitude of us all. I am delighted that the Ayrshire Hospice, in its special anniversary year, will share the proceeds of our gala Provost’s Civic Awards event in North Ayrshire next month. The people of North Ayrshire have taken the Ayrshire Hospice to heart in the 25 years since that long-held dream came to reality.”

East Ayrshire Council Provost Jim Todd said: “It’s amazing to think that the Ayrshire Hospice has been providing such an incredible service for a quarter of a century now. Its main aim is to help people to live as actively as they can to the end of their lives - however long that may be, wherever that may be. Because this care is provided at no cost to the patient the Hospice does require extensive, ongoing fundraising support so I would encourage people to get involved in any fundraising activities they can to help the Hospice to continue to deliver its outstanding work for many more years to come.”

As a lasting reminder of the 25th anniversary of the Ayrshire the Ayrshire councils presented the hospice with a Quaich and a scroll.

Mandy Yule, Chief Executive of the Ayrshire Hospice said: “We were very proud when North, South and East Ayrshire Council offered to host a civic reception in honour of our 25th anniversary this year. Since opening our doors in 1989, the hospice has gone from strength to strength and we have been privileged to provide outstanding hospice care to almost 15,500 people with life-limiting illness, and their families, across Ayrshire over the last 25 years. Of course none of this would have been possible without the unfaltering support of a very compassionate and generous Ayrshire community and dedication of our wonderful employed and voluntary staff. Today’s civic reception is true recognition that, by working together, we can all make today matter”.

A registered charity the Ayrshire Hospice provides outstanding quality care and services to adults with any life limiting illness across Ayrshire and Arran. This includes support and guidance for relatives, friends and colleagues of those using their services.

The hospice has over 171 employed members of staff and over 800 voluntary staff, working together to deliver outstanding care and services to patients, families and carers across Ayrshire.

In this 25th anniversary year more school children, community groups, businesses and other organisations large and small have been generously raising funds through everything from baking to biking, jogging to jam making, washing cars to washing dishes. Every penny raised is put to good use.

Employees from the Ayrshire councils continue to support the Ayrshire Hospice with a range of fundraising events such as taking part in annual Go Purple Day, the Midnight Walk and by giving their time to support them.

For further information about the Ayrshire Hospice go to www.ayrshirehospice.org

By: Iain Ferguson

KERR & Smith Group Raceday takes place at Ayr Racecourse today Thursday 20 February with seven races coming under starter’s orders at 2.20pm.

The feature race on the card is a Class 3, 2 mile handicap hurdle at 4.50pm with several fancied runners going to post.

Lucinda Russell runs recent course winner Final Assault while Irish raider Trucking Along from the Stuart Crawford yard is looking for a fourth course win.

The previous race, the 3 mile 1 furlong handicap chase is interesting with borders trainer Willie Amos set to choose which horse he runs between Arc Warrior and Oil Burner. Both have won at the course recently.

Elsewhere on the card the 3.20pm handicap hurdle looks an interesting opportunity for the Lucinda Russell trained The Starboard Bow.

Jockeys in action are likely to include Jason Maguire, Brian Harding, Peter Buchanan and Lucy Alexander.

Gates open at 12.20pm with the first race due off at 2.20pm and the final race, the national hunt flat race coming under starter’s orders at 5.20pm.

Following today’s meeting, Ayr next races on Friday 7 March and Saturday 8 March with the totepool racedays double header.

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.

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Demand for homes in Scotland continues to outstrip supply

Love at first site as South Ayrshire Council opens new Kirkmichael primary school

It’s a double for champion jockey AP McCoy at Ayr Racecourse

Ayrshire councils celebrate Ayrshire Hospice 25th anniversary

Kerr & Smith Group Raceday hosts some course specialists