Annanhill Primary School in Kilmarnock has been showered with praise following a stellar inspection report by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education (HMIE), which was published on Tuesday, 23 April. The school underwent a rigorous evaluation back in February, with the findings highlighting several strengths that set Annanhill apart in the field of education. Head Teacher, Emma Johnstone, was lauded alongside her staff for their "relentless drive" and the establishment of "calm, purposeful learning environments" throughout the school. This effort has successfully fostered a "culture of high expectations," according to the inspectors' report. The team also recognised the positive and inclusive school ethos, which has been instrumental in bolstering the relationships between students and staff. The inspectors noted the beneficial impact of these relationships on the school environment, commending the staff’s dedication to professional growth through strong partnerships and teamwork. Such efforts have notably enhanced the educational experiences of students, particularly benefiting those with additional learning needs. In response to the report, Councillor Elaine Cowan, Spokesperson for Education, Children and Young People, visited the school to extend her congratulations to Johnstone and her team. "I was delighted to visit Annanhill Primary, on the morning their HMIE report was published, to congratulate Head Teacher Emma Johnstone and the whole school on such a positive report," she remarked. Her visit included interactions with the students, highlighting the confidence and engagement of the young learners. Johnstone expressed her pride in the school's achievements and the crucial role played by the students during the inspection. "A team of six inspectors from Education Scotland joined us for a week back in February and participated in all aspects of school life," she explained. The children were actively involved, even leading tours for the inspectors, showcasing the school’s vibrant community and their own contributions to its success. Johnstone also acknowledged the collective effort behind the school’s success. "As Head Teacher, I am so grateful for my whole team of teachers, support staff and partners within our school community," she stated, emphasising the community's dedication to providing outstanding outcomes for all pupils. The visit by Councillors Douglas Reid, Lillian Jones, and James Adams, along with Cowan’s commendations, underscores the local community’s support for the school’s educational strategies and achievements. With such strong endorsements, Annanhill Primary looks set to continue its tradition of excellence in fostering an enriching learning environment for all its students.

Linda Hill Miller, founder of Ayrshire-based LAH Travel, and renowned children’s author Shirley Husband are setting the stage to transform family travel with their latest venture, "Kaleido's Adventures." This innovative initiative aims to combine education with exploration, igniting curiosity in young minds about the vast wonders of the world. Central to this new project is Kaleido, a distinctive puppet with soft turquoise skin and colorful scales. Created by puppeteer Sally Preseig, known for her work on CBeebies favourites like Button Moon and The Tweenies, Kaleido is designed to captivate children with his mysterious origins and engaging personality. Whether hailing from prehistoric times or another world entirely, he serves as a global guide for families, teaching children about history, geography, science, and culture. "Kaleido's Adventures" is rooted in the scenic landscapes of Ayrshire but has a vision that spans across the globe. It aims to make educational content accessible and entertaining through a comprehensive online platform. The initiative’s website, www.kaleidosadventures.com, will host a variety of resources including travel videos on YouTube and educational materials aligned with school curricula, aimed at boosting children’s knowledge and enthusiasm for travel. The project also includes interactive elements such as visits to schools and events with Kaleido, operated by puppeteers trained by the renowned Henson company. This approach ensures that children not only learn from digital content but also engage with Kaleido in a tangible, memorable way. Reflecting on the inspiration behind the project, Linda Hill Miller shared a personal anecdote: “I have a 9-year-old niece, and when she was booked on her first cruise, she had all sorts of anxious thoughts about her ship sinking. It made me realise that children have many fears and questions about travel. Kaleido brings new energy and will teach the next generation how precious and wonderful our world is." Shirley Husband added, “It’s amazing to work on this project with Linda, who has worked in the travel industry for 35 years and has built a fantastic reputation amongst her colleagues and associates. We’re both extremely passionate about travel and our ability to inspire children to forget their worries, learn about the wider world and be inspired by what’s possible.” Kaleido’s Adventures is actively seeking partnerships with travel companies that wish to engage with a growing audience of families eager to explore the world. This Ayrshire-born project represents a unique opportunity to showcase global destinations while educating and inspiring the next generation of travellers. For partnership inquiries and more information, please contact the team at hello@kaleidoadventures.com.

Scottish Labour Leader Anas Sarwar joined Labour’s candidate for the Kilwinning by-election, Mary Hume, on the campaign trail last Saturday, 20th April. The pair, accompanied by Labour activists, engaged with the local community and business owners along Main Street in Kilwinning, discussing the forthcoming council by-election on 9th May. During the visit, conversations centred on the support needed for local traders to thrive and the potential impact of new policies. Sarwar took to social media to share his experiences: "The sun was shining in Kilwinning this morning! Our candidate in the upcoming council by-election Mary Hume showed me around her beautiful town and told me people here are proud, but they’ve been let down (by the SNP). On 9th May we can change that and deliver the change Kilwinning needs." Mary Hume commented on the visit, saying, “Having Anas in Kilwinning was brilliant. Our campaign has been working incredibly hard, speaking to voters over the last few weeks. People have been repeatedly telling us that Kilwinning is being let down by the SNP Council and Anas heard the same from people in the town centre.” She added, “He also heard direct from some of local businesses who are doing everything in their power to bring more people into the town centre. They told us how if SNP Councillors had succeeded in introducing town centre parking charges it would have crippled their business. It’s clear they need more support and I will be a champion for them in the Council if elected on 9th May.” The visit highlighted the key issues and concerns of the Kilwinning electorate as the by-election approaches, with local leaders seeking to influence the outcome through direct dialogue and engagement with the community.

A serious incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when a small aircraft crashed in a field adjacent to the A719 near Monkton, prompting an immediate response from emergency services. Police Scotland reported that the crash took place around 4:10 pm on 23 April 2024. Following the incident, emergency personnel swiftly attended the scene. Two men, aged 65 and 75, were involved in the accident and have been airlifted to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. Both are currently receiving treatment for serious injuries sustained during the crash. As a result of the incident, the A719 was temporarily closed at the junction with the B739 to facilitate emergency operations and ensure safety. The road was reopened later that evening at around 7:30 pm. Authorities are actively conducting investigations to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash. A statement from Police Scotland said: “Around 4.10pm on Tuesday, 23 April, 2024, we received a report of a small aircraft having crashed in a field near to the A719 at Monkton.” “Emergency services attended and two men aged 65 and 75 were taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital by helicopter for treatment of serious injuries.” “The A719 was closed at the B739, Monkton and re-opened around 7.30pm.” “Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.” Prestwick Airports Fire Brigade and Ground Operations team also assisted in the incident.

Two nurses from NHS Ayrshire & Arran have been named finalists in the esteemed Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Scotland Nurse of the Year awards. Susan Holland and Yasmin Murray, who work at University Hospital Crosshouse, have earned their places as finalists due to their exceptional contributions to Scottish nursing. Susan Holland, serving as an Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Nurse Consultant for the past six years, has been recognised in the Mental Health Nursing Award category. She has been lauded for her leadership abilities and her significant impact on mental health nursing, particularly in advancing positive dementia practices. Yasmin Murray, the Deputy Charge Nurse at the Medical High Dependency Unit, has been nominated for the Learning in Practice Award. Yasmin’s innovative approach includes developing a specialised training programme designed to support junior nurses within her unit. This initiative not only aims to enhance patient care but also seeks to increase efficiency and improve staff retention. The awards ceremony, set to be a highlight of the nursing calendar, will take place on the 23rd of May 2024 at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh. This event promises to bring together nursing professionals from across the country to celebrate their achievements and dedication. Jennifer Wilson, Nurse Director at NHS Ayrshire & Arran, expressed her pride and congratulations to both nominees. “This is fantastic news and well deserved. Huge congratulations to Yasmin and Susan. This recognition acknowledges the important work they are both doing in their roles and I wish them every success for the RCN awards night itself next month,” she said. The recognition of Susan and Yasmin at this prestigious event underscores the high level of nursing expertise within NHS Ayrshire & Arran and highlights the vital role nurses play in healthcare.

After 21 years of serving the Ayr community, Wee Windaes, a beloved local pub located on Newmarket Street, is witnessing the end of an era as owner James "Jim" McSherry announces his retirement. While the pub itself will continue under new management, Sunday will mark Jim's final day at the helm, making it a significant milestone for both him and the pub's regular patrons. In a heartfelt social media post, the pub's management expressed profound gratitude to its customers: "We’d like to say thank you to every single person that has passed through our doors over the years. Whether just the once or every day, you’ve made the Wee Windaes the special place it is—a home from home." Known for its warm, familial atmosphere, Wee Windaes has been a cornerstone of the community, drawing locals and visitors alike. The post highlighted the crucial role of the clientele in shaping the pub's unique character: "You have been the heart of the pub ♥️ and it’s thanks to you we’ve built such a wonderful Wee Windaes family." The dedication and humour of the staff were also acknowledged as integral to the pub’s success: "The staff have played a huge part, and we’d like to thank them for their support and laughs along the way." As for Jim, his post-retirement plans involve spending more time with family and friends, though, as the pub quipped, "we can safely say he won’t do much relaxing and certainly can’t see him taking up golf! 🤣" While Jim prepares to step back, Wee Windaes is set to continue welcoming guests under new management. As this transition unfolds, the management sends out one final message under Jim's stewardship: "Thank you all for the memories." This Sunday’s event will surely be an emotional day for many, as locals celebrate Jim’s contributions and bid him a fond farewell, even as they look forward to the future of Wee Windaes.

South Ayrshire Council is delighted to announce that the Typhoon Display Team will return to this year’s International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight. Last September, BlackJack’s electrifying display left the crowds awestruck with daring manoeuvres, at eyewatering speeds of up to 600 miles per hour and the thundering roar of its jet engines! While aerial display times can only be confirmed closer to the event, you can be sure of more jaw-dropping displays from the team on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 September 2024! CEO of theSKYLAB, Dr Geoff Coxon, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have the Typhoon display team return to our airshow and with their brand new paint scheme to commemorate 80 years since Operation Overlord, more commonly known as D-Day. Now affectionately known as “Moggy”, this replaces the very popular BlackJack scheme last year. Be sure to watch this breath-taking display on the Friday night, when the sun light fades and the re-heat of its engines light up the dusk sky, and on the Saturday, when clouds form around its wings. So why not enjoy the display again, but from the cockpit of the jet taken on board BlackJack on the Friday evening of the 2023 airshow? It’s absolutely spectacular!” South Ayrshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Culture and Rural Affairs, Councillor Alec Clark said: “The Typhoon aerial display was a major highlight of the 2023 event that had the crowds in awe. So, it’s super to know that the display team will be joining us once again at this September’s International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight.” South Ayrshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Sport and Leisure, Councillor Brian Connolly, said: “The 2023 Typhoon display was hugely popular with festival goers – it was certainly the best display I have ever seen!  I’m delighted that the team have confirmed for this year’s event and it will be brilliant to see this imposing aircraft take to our skies again.” Leader of South Ayrshire Council, Councillor Martin Dowey, said: “The return of the Typhoon display team is fantastic news. Last year’s display was highly impressive and left people wanting more, so it’s great to be able to confirm that the Typhoon will be back to wow the crowds this September.” The International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight will be held at Ayr shorefront on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 September. You can keep up to date with event progress at www.ayrshow.co.uk Watch the promotional video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWoQdj0M3N4

Lifesaving defibrillators have now been installed at 87 ScotRail stations throughout the country, after the train operator completed the latest roll-out of new machines. The devices are now in place at stations all over Scotland, including Arrochar, Crianlarich, Nairn, Dunbar, and Dumfries. ScotRail has installed the defibs in accessible places wherever possible at stations, and they are available 24 hours day. There are exceptions where it has been necessary to install them in ticket offices due to security issues. The lifesaving equipment can help to restore heart rhythm when someone goes into cardiac arrest, and the completion of this roll-out has greatly enhanced the availability across Scotland’s Railway. All of the devices are registered with the Scottish Ambulance Service and the ScotRail network map has been updated to show a green heart beside each station that currently has a defibrillator installed. The information is also held on The Circuit, which is the National Defibrillator Network. This means that when 999 is called and the caller advises the handler of a cardiac event, the handler will check the database and direct the caller to the nearest device. David Lister, ScotRail Safety and Sustainability Director, said: “ScotRail recognises that in an emergency, a defibrillator can make the difference between life and death, and we are delighted to have been able to install so many of them at stations across the network. “With all of our new devices registered on the national network, it means that if anyone is need of urgent medical care, they will get that vital support when they need it most. “We’re delighted to be supporting communities throughout Scotland, and this latest roll-out ensures that 87 of our stations now have a machine.”

Timetables will be temporarily revised across Ayrshire and Arran during the bank holiday. Monday 6th May 2024 All services on Isle of Arran will operate a normal school holiday service. The following express services will operate a Saturday service on Monday 6th May: Service X76 Kilmarnock – Glasgow Service X77 Ayr – Glasgow (excluding 2340 from Ayr and 0105 from Glasgow, as these will not run) The following Ayrshire services will operate a Sunday service on Monday 6th May: South Ayrshire Service 1: Ayr – Hayhill and Masonhill Service 2: Carrick Street – Prestwick Service 6: Boswell Park – Prestwick Service 43A: Ayr – Annbank Service 58/60/358/360: Ayr – Stranraer Service 97: Ayr – Craig Tara Service 301/302/306: Marchburn – Hillfoot Road Service 347: Ayr – Rankinston North and East Ayrshire Service 1: Kilmarnock – Priestland Service 7: New Farm Loch – Bellfield Service 12: Ardrossan – Stevenston Service 18: Saltcoats – Stevenston Service 25A: Irvine – Beith Service 28A: Irvine Cross – Broomlands Service 76 / X76b: Kilmarnock – Cumnock Service 110: Kilmarnock – Troon Service 585: Ayr – Largs Service X36: Beith – Glasgow The following Ayrshire services will operate an enhanced Sunday service on Monday 6th May: South Ayrshire Service 3: Kincaidston – Whitletts Service 14: Ayr – Troon Service 42: Ayr – Muirkirk Service 43/343: Ayr – New Cumnock Service 52: Ayr – Bellsbank North and East Ayrshire Service 3: Onthank – Shortlees Service 4: Ayr – Glasgow Service 6: New Farm Loch – Bellfield Service 9: Kilmarnock – Stewarton Service 11: Kilmarnock – Ardrossan Service 22: Castlepark – Perceton The following Ayrshire services will not operate: South Ayrshire Service 2A: Ayr Town Centre – Citadel Leisure Centre Service 7: Burns Statue Square – Castlehill Mount Service 9: Ayr – Doonfoot Service 356: Bellsbank – Cumnock North and East Ayrshire Service 1a: Kilmarnock – Hurlford Service 1b: Kilmarnock – Galston Service 2: Kilmarnock – Hurlford Service 5: Kilmarnock – New Farm Loch Service 10: Kilmarnock – Troon Service 23: Hunter Drive – Broomlands Service 25: Irvine – Beith Service 28: Broomlands – Irvine Railway Station Service 50: Kilmarnock – Cumnock Bus Station Service 585A: Largs – Stevenston Service X71: Priestland – Glasgow Service X78: Troon – Glasgow Service X79: Irvine Cross – Glasgow Remember to check to use the stagecoach journey planner before you set off, as updates may be made from time to time.

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.