An Ayr cat who accidentally entered a van and found himself lost in Kilmarnock has been Reunited With his owner after being spotted in Troon. Finn from Doonfoot found himself lost in Kilmarnock but rather than staying around the area he decided to try and find his own way home treking over 12 miles and being spotted in Troon. The post originally shared by South Ayrshire Cats Protection caught the attention of hundreds of people before finally being confirmed today that Finn has been captured and after a vet check is in good health. Finn has now been Reunited with his Mom who couldn't be happier, Finn was believed to be heading back towards Doonfoot from Kilmarnock. We are glad Finn has been found and that he's now safe and reunited with his owner.

ScotRail is advising customers to plan ahead and expect some services to be busier than normal ahead of a packed weekend of sporting action. Both men's Scottish Cup Semi Finals will take place at Hampden Park on Saturday and Sunday (20 and 21 April), while the country’s biggest horseracing meeting takes place at Ayr Racecourse, with the Scottish Grand National on Saturday. To help fans enjoy the showpiece occasions, the train operator is running extra services, adding more seats, and operating a special shuttle bus linking Prestwick Town services with Ayr. Aberdeen play Celtic at the national stadium on Saturday with a 12.30 kick off, while Rangers face Hearts the following day with a 15.00 kick off. ScotRail has confirmed additional trains will operate between Glasgow Central and Mount Florida, before and after the matches, with queuing systems in operation at both stations. Meanwhile, for horseracing fans, more seats are being added to services between Glasgow Central and Prestwick Town, and a shuttle bus service will run from there to Allison Street in the town, a short walk from the racecourse. The buses will be operating between 10.00 and 13.00, and again from 17.00 to 20.30, taking customers both to and from the racecourse. The train operator is warning fans that services will be busier than normal, so customers should plan ahead and leave extra time for travel. To reduce the need to queue on the day, customers are encouraged to buy return tickets in advance via the mTicket system on the ScotRail app. Buying through the app means mTickets can be purchased from the comfort of home or on the way to the station, and it will instantly become available on a mobile device. Customers are also reminded of engineering works on Sunday, 21 April, between Glasgow Central and Edinburgh via Shotts, where an amended timetable will be in operation. Lanark services will also see a bus replacement to Glasgow Central. ScotRail will have extra staff on hand to assist customers throughout the weekend, and the train operator is reminding everyone that the carrying and consumption of alcohol is prohibited on ScotRail trains and in ScotRail stations. Phil Campbell, ScotRail Customer Operations Director, said: “This weekend is a busy one for major sporting events, and we are looking forward to playing our part to help people travel to both Hampden Park and Ayr Racecourse. “In addition to adding more trains and more seats, the ongoing issues at Ayr station following the fire at the former station hotel, means that we need to do more to support our customers. “As a result, we have managed to secure buses to operate a special shuttle service to and from Prestwick Town, which will help hundreds of people enjoy one of the most iconic events in the Scottish sporting calendar. “Our advice to customers is to leave extra time for travel as trains are likely to be busier than normal, and we will have extra staff in place to offer advice and assistance along the way. “Buying your return tickets in advance through our mTicket system on the ScotRail app will reduce your need to queue, and help your journey run smoothly.”

ONE OF Ayrshire’s best loved venues, Scotts, has revealed a collection of vibrant new spring menus at its restaurants in Largs and Troon. The stylish eateries, operated by leading hospitality group Buzzworks, are now serving a tantalising array of dishes that capture the very essence of the season. The new menus feature a selection of delicious starters, a fresh new range of salads, carefully sourced fresh seafood and a huge selection of specialties that utilise some of the best locally landed produce on offer. And what’s more, ahead of the 152nd Open at Royal Troon later this year, both chef teams have worked closely with Buzzworks’ head of food Scott van der Hoek to create an exciting menu that showcases the very best flavours Scotland has to offer to both local and international visitors alike. Danny Poli, Head Chef at Scotts Troon, said: “All eyes will be on Ayrshire in the coming months and with spring on our doorstep and summer just a few months away, we’re excited to present this brand-new menu offering to guests both old and new. “There are still lots of classic Scotts dishes on offer, but our teams in Largs and Troon have worked together to develop a delicious new range of options which reflect the lighter evenings and sunnier days.” Among the highlights of the new menus is a whole new section dedicated to refreshing salads. The standout is the poke bowl – a nutritious ensemble of wasabi nuts, pak choi, avocado, edamame beans, picked carrot, radish, tomato and lemon & mint dressing, offering a refreshing and satisfying meal. Meanwhile, the specialties section of the menus celebrate seasonal ingredients and classic flavours, such as pan seared chicken breast served with wild garlic butter, asparagus tips, roast baby potatoes, and tarragon cream. The spring menu also brings with it a light lunch section, with options such as the vegan-friendly pea and shallot tortellini, served with pea fricassee, lemon mascarpone, pangrattato, and vegan parmesan cheese. The new food offerings also include some stand-out starters, including salmon with orange and fennel salad, accompanied by crème fraiche, lime gel, micro sorrel and sourdough croutes – the perfect springtime dish to refresh the palette. For plant-based food lovers, the chargrilled watermelon & whipped feta, drizzled with pomegranate molasses and garnished with mint, chilli, and watercress is a burst of freshness on the plate. Beth Neilson, deputy manager of Scotts Troon, said: “There really is something for everyone with our brand-new spring menus – whether you’re a seafood lover, vegan or vegetarian, or just in the mood for something lighter, we’ll have the dish for you. “As well as our new spring offering, we’re going to continue running our popular Fork Out for Less breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, as well as our much-loved Steak Night and Surf and Turf options.” Natalie McKinnon, general manager of Scotts Largs, added: “As we continue to add to and develop our brilliant menu offerings, we’re actively looking for kitchen and front-of-house staff to join our teams across Ayrshire to help deliver some of the best hospitality that Scotland has to offer. “If you’re passionate about great food and excellent service, then we want to hear from you!” To learn more about the range of kitchen, front-of-house and mid-management roles available at Buzzworks venues across Ayrshire, including Scotts Largs and Scotts Troon, visit: www.belongatbuzzworks.com or search ‘Buzzworks People’ on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn. Alternatively, email your CV to people@buzzworksholdings.com. The new springtime menus at Scotts Largs and Scotts Troon are available now. To book, visit www.scotts-largs.co.uk or www.scotts-troon.co.uk, or call the restaurants on 01475 686684 for Largs, or 01292 315315 for Troon.

The Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) has launched a recruitment drive for volunteers to join its Community First Responder (CFR) team in Troon. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance emergency response services in the area by training local residents to handle potentially life-threatening situations. Community First Responders are trained to provide initial care during critical situations such as cardiac arrests or seizures, in the crucial moments before the arrival of an ambulance. The program is open to all individuals over the age of 18 who possess a valid driving license, and no prior medical experience is required. Michael Dickson, Chief Executive of the SAS, emphasized the importance of CFRs, stating, "CFRs come from a variety of backgrounds and play a vital role in starting treatment whilst an ambulance is on route. They are highly valued by the Scottish Ambulance Service, and I would encourage those with an interest in supporting their community to apply for this opportunity.” Training for the position will include Basic Life Saving (BLS) skills needed to respond effectively to emergency calls. Interested parties can apply to become a community first responder via the SAS website or learn more about the role and its requirements online. This volunteer program not only aims to strengthen community safety but also provides a valuable opportunity for individuals to acquire essential life-saving skills and contribute significantly to their local area. To register to become a CFR, visit: Community First Responder (formwize.com) or to find out more about becoming a CFR, visit: https://www.scottishambulance.com/your-community/community-first-responders/

An East Ayrshire man has been handed six months’ imprisonment and banned from owning animals for ten years following a Scottish SPCA investigation. 34-year-old Daryl Torrance of Sorn Street, Mauchline was sentenced at Ayr Sheriff Court on 16 April 2024 for animal neglect and unnecessary suffering to his dog. Torrance also failed to provide suitable living conditions to two other dogs and a cat. Scottish SPCA inspector Caitin Rea said: “On 24 October 2022 we received a call via our animal helpline. The complaint was anonymous and raised concerns for a dog at Sorn Street. The caller was concerned that the dog was being left alone by the owner for long periods of time and was believed to be locked in the back room of the flat. “We attended the property and we started abandonment procedures by putting tapes on the door and left a card through the letterbox asking the occupier to contact us as soon as possible. “We also made contact with the local housing officer from East Ayrshire Council to gain access to the property to secure the welfare of any animals within. “On Wednesday 26 October 2022 there had been no contact from the owner so entry was forced by Council joiners. As soon as we entered we were faced with an overpowering stench of ammonia in the stairwell. In the back bedroom of the property the smell of both ammonia and faeces was very prominent and there were several piles of faeces lying on the carpet in the bedroom. “At the back of the bedroom was a medium sized dog crate with a cover over the top. We removed the cover and was shocked to discover a medium sized, male, brindle and white crossbreed type dog lying curled up in the corner of the crate. The dog was emaciated and in a collapsed state. He was so weak he couldn’t even lift his head. There was a bowl of untouched dog food at the other corner of the crate that he would have been unable to reach, and there was no water. He was lying on top of a blanket which was covered in urine and faeces. “We removed the dog from the crate and wrapped him in a fresh blanket. The dog managed to find the energy to wag his tail, which was very distressing. It was clear to that this dog needed urgent veterinary attention. “The vet recommended euthanasia based on welfare grounds due to the severity of the dog’s condition. “We are pleased that Torrance received imprisonment and a ban on owning animals for ten years. His dog clearly endured suffering leading up to his death. The other two dogs were able to be rehabilitated and have since found new homes. “If anyone is concerned about an animal, they can contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”

The stage is set for a thrilling weekend of jumps racing at Ayr Racecourse as the prestigious Coral Scottish Grand National gets underway this Saturday, April 20th. Thousands of spectators are expected to descend upon the track, making it one of the biggest sporting events of the year in Scotland. This year's Coral Scottish Grand National promises to be even more electrifying than the record-breaking sell-out event of 2023. With a total prize purse of £500,000, it's the richest day of jumps racing in Scotland, attracting top-class horses, trainers, and jockeys from across the UK and Ireland. The highlight of the weekend, the Coral Scottish National itself, is a gruelling test of stamina and skill. Run over nearly four miles, the race will see around 71 horses vying for glory. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the legendary Red Rum's historic feat of winning both the Scottish and Aintree Grand Nationals in the same year. To commemorate this remarkable achievement, Ayr Racecourse will unveil a commemorative plaque on the opening day. Beyond the main event, the two-day festival promises a full schedule of exhilarating races, along with exciting entertainment and lively atmospheres. Racegoers can expect a fun-filled day with delicious food and drink options available throughout the venue. Whether you're a seasoned racing enthusiast or simply looking for a day of action and entertainment, the Coral Scottish Grand National is an event not to be missed. With tickets selling fast, it's recommended to secure your spot at Ayr Racecourse and witness the pinnacle of Scottish jumps racing. Check out Here for more information and tickets

Stagecoach West Scotland is on a mission to simplify bus travel for its customers by launching single and return tickets on the Stagecoach Bus App. Customers in Ayrshire will be the first in the UK to pilot the scheme, the roll out from Monday 15th April 2024 will be limited to Irvine town services with a view to launch singles and return tickets across the UK. Ease of use for both customers and drivers is at the heart of the pilot scheme. Stagecoach is encouraging customers to make the switch to the Stagecoach Bus App, to further reduce the environmental impact of paper tickets and speed up boarding times. As well as being able to purchase multiple tickets on the Stagecoach Bus App, it brings with it a host of other benefits including planning journeys and tracking buses in real time. The Stagecoach team will be hosting pop up events across Irvine and travelling on local bus services supporting customers with questions and promoting the benefits of app tickets and travel. Fiona Doherty, Managing Director, Stagecoach West Scotland said: “At Stagecoach, we prioritise good customer experience and ease of use of our services and the pilot launch of single and return tickets on the Stagecoach Bus App is another major step in that journey. Our team is on hand to support customers with any questions they may have, and we value all feedback from customers using the app for the first time and those who have been app users for a while. We are committed to offering an inclusive range of products, customers who may not have a smartphone will still be able to purchase a single or return ticket from the driver.” To celebrate the launch, customers can enter competitions and giveaways for the chance to win free travel. Find out more here!

Football fans without tickets to the UEFA EURO 2024 need not worry, as Kilmarnock’s Ayrshire Athletics Arena is gearing up to host a series of Fanzone events, where supporters can watch Scotland compete on a massive anti-glare screen. East Ayrshire Leisure has announced the setup of this ultimate fan experience to cheer for the national team as they partake in their first major tournament since the 1998 World Cup. The Ayrshire Athletics Arena is expected to recreate the electrifying atmosphere of a live match with an array of facilities including live entertainment, various food vendors, bars, and a plethora of activities in the Kids Zone. Families are encouraged to bring their children as the event promises a festive environment with activities such as Beat the Goalie, obstacle courses, and face painting. The Fanzone will feature three key match viewings: Scotland vs Germany on Friday, June 14th; Scotland vs Switzerland on Wednesday, June 19th; and Scotland vs Hungary on Sunday, June 23rd. Tickets for these viewings are available for purchase online with options ranging from group tables to standing barrels, each including a complimentary drink upon arrival. Organizers have emphasized the necessity of early booking to secure a spot at this sought-after event, as the community's excitement is palpable and the demand for a shared viewing experience is expected to be high. The Fanzone gates will open at 6 PM on match days, allowing plenty of time for fans to gather and soak in the pre-game atmosphere. For more details or to book tickets, visit eastayrshireleisure.com. Terms and conditions are posted at the point of sale to ensure all attendees are well informed. This community initiative by East Ayrshire Leisure is set to offer a memorable experience for football fans and families alike, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and support for Scotland’s national team as they venture into UEFA EURO 2024.

The Children and Young People’s Cabinet held a successful Colour Run at Howard Park, Kilmarnock this week where, despite the rain, runners had great fun being doused with coloured powders as they completed the course. The event was opened by Provost Jim Todd, who was joined by Councillor Elaine Cowan, Chief Executive Eddie Fraser, and Chief Education Officer and Head of Education Linda McAulay-Griffiths. Provost Todd said: “There was a fantastic turnout despite the weather and everyone had great fun. The members of the Children and Young People’s Cabinet put a lot of work into organising the event and they should all be extremely proud of their efforts. "I had the honour of officially starting the Colour Run along with Sarah and Caleb, Chair and Vice Chair of the Children and Young People's Cabinet, and MSYPs David McGilp and Lucy MacKinnon. I was also delighted to congratulate all the participants at the finishing line. It really was a great event and certainly brought quite a bit of colour, and laughter, to a grey Kilmarnock day." The event also included a barbeque provided by the Council's Catering Services.

Ant & Decs Saturday night takeaway finished tonight with its last episode after 20 years of entertaining the nation on a Saturday night. Ant & Dec announced last year that this series would be the last to concentrate on other commitments and family time. The series which started back in 2002 before taking a few year break had just celebrated its 20th anniversary. Would you like to see Saturday night takeaway return to TV in the future?

Former station hotel update - tower and half of northern section to be removed by mid-June 2024. The remainder of the tower and half of the northern section of the building at Ayr Railway Station is set to be taken down as part of ongoing safety works. The works are expected to take a total of 9 weeks, which means they should be completed by 17 June 2024. The decision comes following the conclusion of a number of structural inspections on the tower and northern half of the building. These inspections have revealed extensive fire damage to supporting structural elements, which means these parts of the building can’t remain without serious risk to public safety. The Council’s Building Standards team will now instruct contractors to continue their safety works at the north of the building, extending the use of powers under section 29 of the Building (Scotland) Act 2003 to protect the public and surrounding infrastructure. At the trackside of the building, the walls will still need to be removed by hand in order to protect the railway, however at the Smith Street side, machinery will be used to speed up the operation. Councillor Martin Dowey, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: “I am pleased we now have a way forward. Given the extent of the damage to the northern section, we need to put public safety first. This means that the tower and half of the northern section of the building needs to come down. “I know that this has been a frustrating time for rail users and the travelling public, and it’s always been our priority to work with partners, Network Rail and ScotRail, to get the station operational again as soon as possible. Removing most of the brickwork means our safety works will be complete and our partners will be able to make progress around the reopening of the railway station. Simon Constable, Operations Director for Network Rail Scotland, said: “As soon as it is safe to do so, our engineers will inspect our infrastructure for any damage caused by the fire and we will re-open the railway as soon as we can for our customers.” David Lister, ScotRail Safety & Sustainability Director, said: “ScotRail welcomes the news that we now have a timeframe for South Ayrshire Council completing the work, and it will bring us a step closer to restoring services for customers. “When the buildings are safe, and Network Rail have inspected the railway lines as safe to operate on, we will be able to start the process of reintroducing our trains on the route. “Until then, we are doing everything we can to help keep customers moving, which includes providing buses for the Scottish Grand National next weekend.” Safety works to the former station hotel building have been taking place since the extensive fire in September 2023.

In an exciting development for media on the West Coast, Ayrshire Daily News has announced the upcoming launch of its very own digital audio broadcasting (DAB) radio station, called Play Ayrshire Radio. Our new DAB radio station, powered by Ayrshire Daily News, promises to offer a blend of entertainment, information, great music, engaging talk shows, and interactive phone-ins, catering to a wide range of listeners across the West Coast and beyond. The station aims to provide round-the-clock entertainment and news, reinforcing ADN's commitment to delivering high-quality content to its audience. We would like to thank our radio maestro Ian Taylor for staying and being part of us to help build Play Ayrshire Radio and take us on our journey with his team and experience. Stay tuned for the official launch date, LIKE our Play Ayrshire Radio FB page and you could win 2 VIP tickets to the launch party. Get ready to experience a dynamic and innovative radio service designed to entertain, inform, and engage listeners like never before. Play Ayrshire Radio is coming to the West Coast of Scotland and beyond.