Bring your wee ones along to the PlayTalk Read roadshow. There’ll be Baby Massage, along with Bookbug free song, . . . → Read More: Fun galore as “Play Talk Read Roadshow” rolls into town]]> Children under three and their families are in for a big treat in East Ayrshire next week as the “Play Talk Read” bus run by the Smarter Scotland initiative rolls into a town near you.

Bring your wee ones along to the PlayTalk Read roadshow. There’ll be Baby Massage, along with Bookbug free song, rhyme and story sessions. And play@home will be running interactive play time morning sessions from 9.30am –12.30pm. Afternoon sessions are from 1.30pm-5pm daily. Join the fun for free!

Did you know that the big things like confidence, reading and language skills develop when your kids are under three? The more you play, talk and read with them when they’re young, the better they’ll be at learning new skills when they grow up.
Play
Did you know that your child’s brain is growing at such an amazing rate, that by three years old it will be three quarters of its adult size? The more you play with your kids now, the better learners they’ll be as they grow up.
If it seems like a long time ago since you’ve played, don’t worry. It’ll come back to you like riding a bike!
• Enjoy yourself – the sillier you feel, the more your child will love it!
• Trash can be treasure – and the best play ideas often don’t cost a penny. A bottle could be a rocket or add some rice and it’s a musical shaker. Kids love using their imagination!
• If your wee one doesn’t seem interested, just try another activity.
• Play can be any time or anywhere – you don’t need hours to spare or a strict routine.
Talk
Did you know that if you talk a lot to your kids, you can increase the amount of words they know by as many as 250 by the age of two? The more you do it now, the better at talking they’ll be when they get to nursery.
Don’t worry if you feel a bit silly talking to your wee one when they can’t really talk back to you yet. It’s perfectly natural, and you’ll get used to it. And you’re helping them learn to speak and think for themselves.
• Even if your child likes music or the TV, sometimes it’s good to talk with less background noise – it will help them learn to concentrate, too.
• Say what you see – it’s a great way of teaching your child words. “Here comes the bus!”
• If your wee one says something in the wrong way, don’t correct them – just repeat the word back in the right way and they’ll soon learn.
• Have fun. Talking gives you and your wee one a chance to shine – you can talk about anything you want!
Read
Did you know that kids can develop up to half of their language skills before they are three? The more you look at books together now, the better they’ll be with their reading and words as they get older.
To your wee one, you’re the best storyteller in the world, so why not give it a go? Reading doesn’t cost a penny either – just visit your local library.
• Encourage them to turn the pages with you. They’ll soon be so good at it they’ll take the book off you and do it themselves!
• Running your finger over words as you say them will help your child learn that the ‘squiggles’ they see actually mean something.
• Read at a slow pace so your baby or toddler can keep up.
• Get cosy – find a quiet space for you both to tuck away and hide from the hustle and bustle of the day.

Join the fun for free! Bring your toddler to :
14/02/12 – The Cross, (Top of King Street at the bottom of Portland Gate), Kilmarnock, KA1 1PT
15/02/12 – AM ASDA Kilmarnock Superstore, 10 Queens Drive, Kilmarnock, KA1 3XB
15/02/12 – PM Tesco Kilmarnock Extra, West Shaw Street, Kilmarnock, KA1 4BS
16/02/12 – AM ASDA Cumnock Supermarket, Townhead Street, Cumnock, KA18 1LE
16/02/12 – PM Tesco Auchinleck, Main Street, Auchinleck, Cumnock, East Ayrshire, KA18 2AA
To find out more, visit www.playtalkread.org

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The event was organised by the Kuloc Chinese Association in partnership with East Ayrshire Council. Pupils from Grange Academy participated in the Dragon . . . → Read More: Happy New Year Chinese style as Kilmarnock celebrates “The Year of the Dragon”]]> Dragons were on the loose in Kilmarnock Town Centre drawing crowds of shoppers as local school pupils joined in celebrations to mark the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Dragon.

The event was organised by the Kuloc Chinese Association in partnership with East Ayrshire Council. Pupils from Grange Academy participated in the Dragon dance and other East Ayrshire pupils sang the Friendship Song. Thereafter there was a display with the dragons and Lion from the Glasgow Hong Look Dragon and Lion dancing Troupe.

Provost Stephanie Young said “Good weather and a great turnout made all the preparations for this auspicious date in the Chinese calendar worthwhile. It was great to see the spectacular dragon dance and really celebrate the strong links that Kuloc have built in our community.

“I’ve had the great pleasure to work in partnership with Thomas Ho and Kuloc on many occasions during my tenure as Provost of East Ayrshire Council and they have always been extremely supportive of my charity appeals, taking part and contributing to fundraising at every opportunity.

“Today we’ve been joined by pupils from East Ayrshire to enjoy and take part in this colourful spectacle. Together with the huge success of the Mandarin classes on offer through Grange Academy at the “Confucious Hub” for Ayrshire and the many acitivities offered by Kuloc our cultural links with the Chinese community in East Ayrshire are going from strength to strength. “

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The four, Ian Rennie, Archie McDonald, Sandy Brown and Jim McHardy came armed with a hand carved representation of the national crest of Uganda – . . . → Read More: A bit of Uganda comes to London Road]]> A bit of Uganda came to East Ayrshire Council’s London Road HQ recently when a group of intrepid travellers from St Kentigern’s Church were welcomed by Provost Stephanie Young.

The four, Ian Rennie, Archie McDonald, Sandy Brown and Jim McHardy came armed with a hand carved representation of the national crest of Uganda – a gift to the Provost from the Mayor of Arua in Northern Uganda which the men visited with a view to creating links of friendship and help with their home town.

As retired GP Jim McHardy explained: “Our visit to Arua was partly inspired by some work I did in Africa a number of years ago. I had spent some time in Arua and was keen to revisit it. As a team we all have different areas of interest and skills to offer and our trip was very much a fact finding mission to identify ways in which we could offer practical support to the community.”

The team spent nearly a month in the town which has a population of 65,000, similar in size to Kilmarnock, and also visited the nearby rural area of Ociba. While there they established links with the Mayor’s office spending time with the Director of Education, Medical Officer, Waste Disposal Officers and the Head of Roads. In Ociba they met a Building Engineer and clergy from local churches and their member groups.

The men took with them nearly £4000.00 which they had raised through St Kentigern’s. This was used towards building the foundations of a 3 unit residential home being built to raise funds and provide an income for the local church and community of Ociba. They also took 600 mosquito nets for wards in the local hospital in Arua and games equipment for children.

Jim McHardy said: “Although we knew in advance some of the things which were useful, once there we got a clearer picture of just what is needed. One of the reasons we have visited the Provost is to see what assistance East Ayrshire Council and the wider community can give. The people of Arua are not necessarily looking for funds, more practical expertise and solutions to fundamental problems.

“For example we saw a beautiful three storey modern hospital building which cannot be used because it has no sewerage system. We are now looking for assistance to sort this and get the building open – a move which will vastly improve healthcare.

“So much of what we take for granted here is difficult in this part of Africa. Raw materials such as cement are much more expensive in Uganda than here. We saw women working for hours breaking rocks by hand just to have stone to mix to make concrete.

“We also came across pupils who are working extremely hard in school but without proper resources – the few textbooks they have are woefully out of date – they struggle to pass exams. And lack of proper rubbish disposal and recycling facilities mean there is a street filled with rubbish and a seven and a half acre site on the outskirts of town which is a haven for flies, vermin and disease, including cholera.”

Since their return the men have already made headway in their mission to help Arua. They have obtained advice from East Ayrshire Council Cleansing Services and the NHS Ayrshire and Arran Public Health Department to try to combat sanitation and waste disposal issues. Graham Short, head of Education and Social Services has also agreed to investigate what can be done to help improve the curriculum and the team are keen to recruit more volunteers to lend their skills and knowledge to the project.

Provost Young said: “It was humbling to meet Ian, Archie, Sandy and Jim. At an age when most men are enjoying a leisurely retirement they undertook this arduous trip, putting up with basic sanitation, lack of electricity and conditions which proved challenging to their health. But the enthusiasm and fondness for Arua and its people which they have brought back is infectious. As a Council we will look at ways in which we can give practical assistance and support to the team and the people of Arua.”

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Developed by . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire toddlers get a healthy head start]]> East Ayrshire toddlers will get a healthy head start to the New Year thanks to the next healthy lifestyle programme that opens its doors in April 2012. Parents or carers of children aged 2 – 4 can now sign up for a free healthy lifestyle course starting on Wednesday 18 April 2012.

Developed by experts in child health, MEND 2 – 4 (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition…Do It!) offers families a safe and supportive environment where they can learn about nutrition and how to stay active so their child gets the best possible start in life.

The free 10-week programme is open to all children aged 2-4 and runs once a week for 90 minutes. The course includes parent workshops, fun games for children and creative play activities.

During the sessions children try a variety of fruit and vegetables and parents and carers are given healthy snack ideas. Children learn healthier habits through creative play while the adults learn how to deal with fussy eating habits and read food labels.

Allison Young, the MEND 2 – 4 programme manager said: “This fantastic free programme gives local families with young children in East Ayrshire a healthy start in life. At MEND young children are encouraged to try new things and parents and carers learn creative ways to get their child to taste and enjoy healthy snacks, which can be especially helpful to parents of fussy eaters.”

Julie Duff a local parent who attended the first MEND 2 – 4 programme at Bonnyton Community Centre with her son, Kyle said: “MEND is a fun and informative way of implementing a healthy lifestyle for you and your family. My son enjoyed all the well planned activities, benefited by meeting other children and families and learned about healthy foods in a fun environment. My husband, daughter, son and I all participated and looked forward to going to every session.”

Places are limited so if you would like to register your family for the MEND 2 – 4 programme or would like any further information then please call Allison Young, Programme Manager on 01563 576719 or email: MEND@east-ayrshire.gov.uk deadline for applications is Friday 30 March 2012. Please note the times and venue of this programme will be confirmed once families have registered to ensure suitablility.

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Since the Council’s Charter for Sport was launched three years ago the number of athletes receiving support has increased significantly. 31 athletes now receive Developing Potential Support – . . . → Read More: New sporting futures for 2014]]> Talented athletes from throughout East Ayrshire are benefitting from the Council’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent through a dedicated support programme and excellent new facilities.

Since the Council’s Charter for Sport was launched three years ago the number of athletes receiving support has increased significantly. 31 athletes now receive Developing Potential Support – this includes an award of £200, a facility access pass, free registration on the East Ayrshire Sports Medicine Clinic and the opportunity to assess sessional employment in sports coaching. 5 athletes receive Podium Potential Support, which is similar to developing potential but has a financial award of £1000. A further 13 candidates are awaiting final assessment from the Institute of Sport and it is hoped that the developing potential group will be bolstered by a further 10 athletes!

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “Our talented athletes are a real credit to our area and I don’t just mean within their chosen sport. They have all been incredibly generous with their time, enthusiastically participating in community events and being fantastic role models for our young people.

“Kilmarnock Amateur Weightlifting Club, in particular, has worked closely with HMP Kilmarnock on a voluntary basis to develop safe and sustained use of the gym but have also provided advice on technique, positive psychology and nutrition which has had a very positive effect on the prison. It is hoped that it will also act as a preventative intervention for when prisoners are released.”

In addition to this very successful development programme, the Council has been building excellent sports facilities which will help to encourage our young people participate in sport at the highest level. The sports facilities available at the Grange and St Joseph’s Leisure Centres can deliver high level sports activities and events and mean that our local clubs are delivering sport within the best of facilities. Stewarton Sports Centre also greatly increases access to sport locally with fantastic facilities for a huge range of sports; an excellent dance studio and of course there is the FIFA 2* rated synthetic pitch which will greatly improve the coaching and performance of local football clubs. These developments will soon be complimented by the athletics facility at Queens Drive which is set to become a massive asset to East Ayrshire for both sport and health development.

Councillor Morrice added: “The facilities available to our local clubs and our schools provide the opportunity to train our young people in exceptional facilities. Coupled with community based development programmes; a very successful club mentoring programme and facility discount schemes for all voluntary, amateur sports clubs affiliated to East Ayrshire Sports Council, we have high hopes for the future. I am sure that the number of talented athletes in our area will continue to rise in the coming years.”

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A number of local residents are participating in Special Olympic programmes at home and abroad. Their achievements are a great source of pride for their clubs, their communities . . . → Read More: New fund to help Special Athletes]]> A new fund to support local Special Olympians has been established by East Ayrshire Council which will give our local talented athletes the recognition they deserve.

A number of local residents are participating in Special Olympic programmes at home and abroad. Their achievements are a great source of pride for their clubs, their communities and of course for the athletes themselves but on most occasions they have to self fund their place at competitions.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “We are incredibly proud of our talented special athletes and are very conscious of the fact that they must self fund their places in national and international competitions. It seemed only just to us that we establish a fund which will support, recognise and reward our athletes. The fund will run until the World Games in 2015.”

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East Ayrshire Council’s Cultural and Countryside Services recently selected Artist John Crosby to work with 13 pupils form St Joseph’s Academy, to create the circular buff coloured sandstone seat with the . . . → Read More: Artists work in public places]]> Initial site visits have taken place in anticipation of a brand new public art installation to be situated in Dean Castle Country Park.

East Ayrshire Council’s Cultural and Countryside Services recently selected Artist John Crosby to work with 13 pupils form St Joseph’s Academy, to create the circular buff coloured sandstone seat with the slogan ‘Remember the dead, fight for the living’. This is the slogan of the International Workers Memorial Day (IWMD) Organisation, which the seat will commemorate.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council said: “This is a fantastic project which encourages our young people to look at their surroundings and create public art which will encourage visitors to think about International Workers Memorial Day and will pay tribute to the importance of trade unions and the rights of the worker. The project will also link in to pupils’ studies of the history of British trade unions, worker’s rights and issues of globalization.”

The circular design format of the seat embraces the idea of unity. 13 stone blocks constituting the circle will be carved on the outer vertical surface with quotes and images developed by the young people from St Joseph’s. The concept of the artwork is to add weight to and create greater awareness of the IWMD slogan by investigating the theme of health and safety at work, the outcome of which will be the production of designs combining written contributions and graphic images which are to be immortalised in carved stone.

The project will address topics including attitudes to health and safety – asking why accidents are seen as amusing; the history of safe working practices in the UK and abroad; reasons for the rise and fall of industries that once thrived in Kilmarnock and surrounding area, and the link to globalization for their demise. It will also illustrate working conditions in various countries in the developing world, with emphasis on the means of production of every-day consumer items such as trainers, branded clothing and mobile phones of which we are the beneficiaries.

Councillor Willie Coffey said: “The young people at St Joseph’s have really taken this project to heart. They’ve combined their interest in Modern Studies with Art and have come up with some wonderful work. I’m sure the people visiting the memorial will be impressed. Well done.”

At the commemoration/inauguration ceremony on April 28 2012, a maple tree, the national tree of Canada, where the IWMD organisation was founded, will be planted in the centre of the grass within the Ring Seat.

Notes to Editor

The origins of International Workers Memorial Day
“International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD) is intended to remember all those killed at or by work, and to strengthen our resolve to reduce risks and protect people from injury in the workplace.

International Workers’ Memorial Day originated in Canada, founded by CUPE, The Canadian Union of Public Employees. 28 April was chosen for IWMD as this is the anniversary of the Occupational Health and Safety Act in the USA and also commemorates the day that 28 people were killed in a construction incident in Connecticut. Since 1989 trade unions in the USA, UK, Asia, Europe and Africa have organised events on and around 28 April. IWMD was adopted by the Scottish TUC in 1993, followed by the TUC in 1999.”

Installation

The seat will be installed by professional masons on a circular steel reinforced concrete foundation measuring 600mm wide x 150mm thick. The strength of the foundation will prevent future disturbance of the seat by the roots of the tree planted in the centre.

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The £4.3m centre opened its doors with a celebration of sport, . . . → Read More: Scotland Manager opens Stewarton Sports Centre]]> It may not have been the traditional Hampden roar he was accustomed to, but none the less, Scotland Manager, Craig Levein received an enthusiastic East Ayrshire welcome when he officially opened the brand new state of the art Stewarton Sports Centre yesterday. (Thursday)

The £4.3m centre opened its doors with a celebration of sport, featuring talented local athletes, Kilmarnock Football Club, Stewarton Annick and representatives of the local community. Unfortunately the poor weather meant that the pupils from local primary schools – Lainshaw and Nether Robertland Primary – were unable to take to the FIFA 2 accredited synthetic grass pitch but keen to demonstrate their footballs skills participated in a short football tournament in the large sports hall. Craig Levein and Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council, delighted the excited youngsters by presenting medals to all who participated.

Craig Levein said: “I was delighted to officially open Stewarton Sports Centre and present the young players with their medals. The future of sport in our country depends on local authorities providing first-class facilities like this, allowing us to develop future talent from grassroots to, ultimately, the Scotland national teams. I was very impressed by the sports centre, the incredible passion and commitment displayed by everyone involved with this project and I wish them every success for the future.”

Invited guests were treated to a VIP tour of the centre and all it has to offer including a huge games hall. This massive venue can accommodate a number of sports including volleyball, basketball, netball and trampolining and the large dance studio can cater for a wide range of fitness classes.

Councillor Reid said: “Stewarton and the surrounding area has been crying out for a dedicated indoor sport venue and I am delighted that we have been able to deliver such a high quality facility that meets the needs and aspirations of the local community. With an ideal mix of both indoor and outdoor facilities we have ensured that we can provide something for everyone, whatever their sporting interest.

“I would like to thank Barr Construction, our main contractor, and employees from Corporate Infrastructure and Leisure Services for delivering this project on time and within budget.

“The opening was a fantastic and fitting celebration. As a very proud member of the Tartan Army it was a real honour to welcome Craig to East Ayrshire and thank him wholeheartedly for taking the time out of his very busy schedule to open Stewarton Sports Centre.”

Bill Campbell, Director at Barr Limited, said: “Stewarton Sports Centre brings together the efforts of East Ayrshire Council and Barr Construction to create a facility which will be a great asset to the community in Stewarton and throughout East Ayrshire.

“Barr has a track record for delivering first class sporting facilities and we are incredibly proud that Stewarton is now part of this growing portfolio.

“Working in partnership with East Ayrshire Council, the centre and pitches were handed over on time and I have no doubt they will be well used by local residents as well as the potential medal-winners in attendance today.”

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There will be a wide variety of activities on offer for the local community including spin class taster sessions, Zumba classes, a fun castle for the youngsters, badminton and much, . . . → Read More: Getting ready for the launch]]> Stewarton’s state of the art new Sports Centre is getting ready for its big launch weekend – Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 January.

There will be a wide variety of activities on offer for the local community including spin class taster sessions, Zumba classes, a fun castle for the youngsters, badminton and much, much more!

Booking is required for most activities – please contact Stewarton Sports Centre on 01560 480883.

The full launch weekend timetable is detailed below.

Saturday 14 January

Kids Activities

Time Activity Requirement to Book
11.00am – 12 noon Fun Castle (Disco Bounce) Preferable
12.30pm – 1.30pm Arts & Crafts Preferable
2.00pm – 3.00pm Active Schools Sports Session Yes
3.30pm – 4.30pm Assault Course Fun Castle(AirZone) Yes
11.00am – 11.30am Dance Unlimited Taster Preferable
4.30pm – 5.00pm Dance Unlimited Taster Preferable

Fitness Classes

Time Activity Requirement to Book
12noon – 12.45pm Spin Class Taster Yes
3.30pm – 4.15pm Spin Class Taster Yes
1.30pm – 2.00pm Zumba Preferable
2.15pm – 2.45pm Zumba Preferable

Gym Inductions

Time Activity Requirement to Book
11.00am – 5.00pm (Hourly) Inductions Yes/Payment required

Sunday 15 January

Kids Activities

Time Activity Requirement to Book
11.00am – 12 noon Fun Castle (adventure world) Preferable
12.30pm – 1.30pm Parent and Toddler Fun Time No
2.00pm – 3.00pm Try Badminton No
3.30pm – 4.30pm After School Club taster Session No
11.00am – 11.30am Dance Unlimited Taster Preferable
4.30pm – 5.00pm Dance Unlimited Taster Preferable

Fitness Classes

Time Activity Requirement to Book
12noon – 12.45pm Spin Class Taster Yes
3.30pm – 4.15pm Spin Class Taster Yes
1.30pm – 2.00pm Zumba Preferable
2.15pm – 2.45pm Zumba Preferable

Gym Inductions

Time Activity Requirement to Book
11.00am – 5.00pm (Hourly) Inductions Yes/Payment required

Exhibition Football Match

Time Activity Requirement to Book
1.15pm – 2.45pm Exhibition Match Not Required

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Community Health Improvement (CHIP) hosts welcomed over 200 older adults, carers and class participants to their annual festive shindig. Partygoers from all over East Ayrshire enjoyed performances from . . . → Read More: Merry CHIPmas, everybody!]]> The place to be this Christmas was the Grand Hall, when Leisure Development’s CHIP team threw the best party ever, for those who use their services.

Community Health Improvement (CHIP) hosts welcomed over 200 older adults, carers and class participants to their annual festive shindig. Partygoers from all over East Ayrshire enjoyed performances from renowned Scottish tenor Martin Aelred – and even ‘Elvis’entered the building.

Martin was accompanied by members of Musical Minds, a group which raises awareness of dementia across East Ayrshire. The star singer has performed in front of huge audiences all over the world, but took time out of his busy schedule to attend the Grand Hall do. Everyone got into the Christmas spirit as they sang along with him.

East Ayrshire’s very own world recognised Elvis tribute act – in the shape of John Reid, a care co-ordinator from Drongan – had everyone all shook up as the party got into its swing.

The CHIP team also wowed the group with a couple of Zumba tracks which had everyone shaking and shimmying on the dancefloor. One regular class participant, Helen Mc Menamy, then took to the stage to give an amazing performance on the spoons.

Councillor Kathy Morrice said: “This was a terrific way to mark the festive season and everyone had an absolute ball at the Christmas party.

“Congratulations to the CHIP team for bringing all their friends together for such a wonderful social event”.

If you would like to know more about the activities delivered by the CHIP team, please call 01563 576972. For more information on Musical Minds and the work being delivered in East Ayrshire, contact Katy Hawker, Dementia Advisor, on 01563 572712.

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For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

At a time when local authorities the length and breadth of Scotland are facing significant budget cuts the difficult financial climate has a major impact on councils’ abilities to maintain, improve . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire tops nominees for Brighten Scotland Award]]> East Ayrshire Council is the only local authority in the country to have two projects shortlisted for the exciting Brighten Scotland competition.

At a time when local authorities the length and breadth of Scotland are facing significant budget cuts the difficult financial climate has a major impact on councils’ abilities to maintain, improve or refurbish the full range of infrastructure under their jurisdiction.
In a bid to make a small, but meaningful, contribution towards easing this situation, the Brighten Scotland competition aims to find the most worthy public structure to be recoated with Colourgalv. Colourgalv combines hot-dip galvanizing with colour powdercoating to provide a colourfast finish for up to 25 years and guard against rust for around 75 years.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration, said, ‘I am extremely excited to see two proposals within East Ayrshire make the shortlist of this national competition.

In Kilmarnock, the bid to revitalise the artwork on the multi-storey car park, would have a big impact on the attractiveness of the town centre. Its highly prominent position adjacent to the bus station would ensure that a colourful make-over could see the artwork become a real feature within the town. The project is very much in line with our commitment to regeneration and enhancement of Kilmarnock as a place to live, work and shop.

“In Stewarton the plan to to transform benches in Cunningham Watt Park would provide real improvements to this valuable local asset. Local community groups and schools have already put considerable efforts into transforming the park. East Ayrshire Council are fully behind the improvement of public parks and would be delighted to see the benches given a new lease of life with eye catching new colours.

We will be keeping a close eye on the result of this competition when it is announced in the new year and I am very hopeful that one of our worthy entrants will come out on top.’’

For more information on the nominations and Brighten Scotland visit http://www.brightenscotland.co.uk

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All of the guests were either winners or nominees from this year’s Westsound Community Awards which took place in October at Brig O’ Doon . . . → Read More: Community spirit alive and well in Ayrshire]]> Inspirational teachers, brave children, up and coming youngsters and unsung heroes all gathered together at Dean Castle Country Park’s Visitor Centre recently to attend a reception held in their honour.

All of the guests were either winners or nominees from this year’s Westsound Community Awards which took place in October at Brig O’ Doon House Hotel. Categories included Contribution to the Community; Unsung Hero; Good Neighbour; Best Teacher; Best Local Charity and Young Entrepreneur. Inspired by their stories, Provost Stephanie Young organised the reception to congratulate them on their achievements.

Provost Young said: “All of these people have given something back to their community whilst wishing for nothing in return. From Ayrshire Sportsability to Drongan Tenants’ and Residents’ Association and individual members of the community, they are all truly inspiring people who deserve much recognition for their efforts.

“The winner of Best Local Charity 2011 for its exceptional work in the community was Ayrshire Sands. It offers support to families who have lost an unborn baby and one of the reasons the charity is so effective is that everyone involved with it is a bereaved parent or grandparent and understands how it feels to lose a baby. Ayrshire Sands runs on donations alone, so if you are able, it would be wonderful if you could consider supporting this important charity at a time of year that can be very difficult for many families.”

2012 will be the 20th anniversary of the society, one of sixteen in Scotland providing housing which helps elderly people to live independently at modest prices. Abbeyfield . . . → Read More: Abbeyfield celebrates 20th anniversary]]> Provost Stephanie Young and Eddie Fraser, Head of Community Care enjoyed a tasty lunch when they were invited to dine with the residents at Kilmarnock Abbeyfield House.

2012 will be the 20th anniversary of the society, one of sixteen in Scotland providing housing which helps elderly people to live independently at modest prices. Abbeyfield is a ‘not for profit’ organisation and all of the houses are run by volunteers.

Provost Young said: “The residents and staff at Abbeyfield gave me a very warm welcome and a delicious lunch! The residents all seem to really enjoy living at Abbeyfield; they have their independence and privacy with their own rooms and bathrooms and yet have a support network on hand if they need it. They also get to enjoy the companionship of the other residents and can come and go as they please. I wish the society a very happy 20th anniversary and thank them for their hospitality.”

The CHAMPS club, which is delivered by East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development Section, is designed specifically for children and young people with additional support needs and their families. It offers a relaxed, supportive environment for those attending . . . → Read More: Christmas party for CHAMPS!]]> Bellfield Community Centre was the place to be last week for the CHAMPS Club annual Christmas Party.

The CHAMPS club, which is delivered by East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development Section, is designed specifically for children and young people with additional support needs and their families. It offers a relaxed, supportive environment for those attending to participate in a wide variety of games, sports and arts activities.

The club celebrated the end of this block of sessions by having a Christmas party. Great fun was had by all with a special programme of activities, which included party games, bouncy castles and party food.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing, attended the party. She said: “It’s fantastic to experience firsthand the commitment of staff to providing excellent opportunities for children and young people with additional support needs. Every one of the children here had a lovely time at their party but more importantly they’ve all benefited from these activities throughout the year!”

The CHAMPS Club will start back on Monday 9 January 2012. For further information please contact Greg Gallagher on 01563 576858.

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Christmas cheer and party fun was had by all with a special programme of games, activities and a special visit from Santa. However the real spirit of Christmas was shown when all proceeds from the . . . → Read More: SHOUT & MAX Club Charity Christmas Party]]> Hundreds of children from across East Ayrshire joined together recently for the annual SHOUT and MAX Clubs Christmas parties.

Christmas cheer and party fun was had by all with a special programme of games, activities and a special visit from Santa. However the real spirit of Christmas was shown when all proceeds from the party were donated to the West FM Cash for Kids Christmas Appeal 2011. An amazing total of £300 was raised on the day.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Health & Community Wellbeing, attended the party. She said: “I’m always delighted to attend events which celebrate the services available throughout East Ayrshire for children and young people.”

All SHOUT & MAX Clubs will start back on Saturday 14 January 2012. For further information please contact Barry Holmes on 01563 578224.

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Club Together is an important part of Club Legacy 2014 – Scotland’s National Club Development programme for athletics which supports the development of athletics clubs throughout the country. The project . . . → Read More: Clubbing Together]]> Kilmarnock Harrier and Athletics Club is setting the pace in Scotland – they are the first club to join the Club Together Partnership Project.

Club Together is an important part of Club Legacy 2014 – Scotland’s National Club Development programme for athletics which supports the development of athletics clubs throughout the country. The project funds a paid part-time position within the Harriers to help drive the implementation of their development plan and provide support to the club as a whole.

Allison Simpson, Regional Development Manager from Scottish Athletics, said: “The role will have a significant impact on the growth and development of the club and the twin aspects of our vision of increasing participation and performance sit at the heart of everything we do – neither however is possible without athletics clubs playing their part. This club is fully committed to their future development and long-term planning and ready to embrace positive change and that is why we are investing in them.”

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Wellbeing for East Ayrshire Council said: “East Ayrshire Council recognises the benefits of partnership working and the positive results that taking a collaborative approach can achieve. We fully support Scottishathletics National Club Development Programme and our investment is testament to East Ayrshire’s continued commitment to athletics. This new position has come at an exciting time for athletics within East Ayrshire, with the new athletics facility opening in spring 2012. It is anticipated that the investment in the Club Together position will further strengthen the infrastructure of athletics throughout the authority.”

Jim Young, President of Kilmarnock Harrier and Athletics Club, said: “This part time post (15 hours per week) is funded through a partnership between Kilmarnock Harrier and Athletics Club, scottishathletics and East Ayrshire Council. ClubTogether is exactly that – clubs, scottishathletics and a Local Authority coming together to deliver, once and for all, a programme that will make the athletics vision happen.”

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The number of visitors to the park has increased at an incredible rate over the last year. In 2010, over 550,000 visits were recorded, placing the park as the fifth most visited in Scotland. . . . → Read More: Dean Park planning for the future]]> Since Dean Castle Country Park opened 30 years ago it has become one of Scotland’s most popular country parks.

The number of visitors to the park has increased at an incredible rate over the last year. In 2010, over 550,000 visits were recorded, placing the park as the fifth most visited in Scotland. This year’s figures are set to exceed 900,000 visits.

The rise in visitor numbers is a welcome boost for the local economy and to address the park’s growing popularity and secure its reputation as the area’s top visitor attraction, East Ayrshire Council has prepared a Management and Development Plan, which outlines a range of actions and improvements as the way forward for the park between now and 2016.

Following approval of the Management and Development Plan at Cabinet this week, Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council said: “Dean Castle Country Park is a local treasure which attracts visitors from all over Scotland and beyond. The time is right for us to look at the way the park is managed and to adopt a more innovative and creative approach to the development and promotion of this facility to ensure we continue to attract a healthy flow of visitors in the future.”

Following an extensive consultation process, the finalised Plan proposes three distinct management units each focusing on a different aspect of the Park: Historic Management; Urban Farm Management and Countryside Management.

Councillor Reid added: “We will manage the landscape around the castle in a more historically sympathetic fashion; we will develop an urban farm to help develop a breeding programme which will create a more cost effective and vibrant animal area and focus on bringing the extensive woodland back under positive management. We will also extend our core path network to include interpretive trails and links from the park to neighbouring attractions. We also plan to conduct an audit of existing buildings within the park to assess their suitability for current use, to ensure they are fit for purpose.”

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration said: “Many people genuinely love spending time in this beautiful green space. The Management and Development Plan will enhance everything Dean Park has to offer and I am confident that by next year we will attract 1 million visitors. This is a fantastic achievement considering in 2009 we had fewer than 300,000 visitors. Kilmarnock has many assets we should be proud of and these figures prove that many people realise that the town and its parks are well worth visiting.’’

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Although the event had to move into the Glaisnock Shopping Centre – a . . . → Read More: Cumnock lights up for Christmas]]> Cumnock celebrated the start of the festive season in style with the switch on of the Christmas lights. Despite the wind and rain, hundreds braved the weather to enjoy the festivities and live music all provided by local musicians and singers.

Although the event had to move into the Glaisnock Shopping Centre – a change from the planned outdoor festival, the weather did nothing to dampen the Christmas spirit as Billy DJ expertly compered the event. Performances from pupils at Cumnock Academy, the East Ayrshire Traditional Music Group, CAMPS, the Cumnock Chorus and the Cumnock Girls ‘Glee’ Group showcased the breadth of talent in the area.

Cartoon characters, magician and Owl Magic entertained the kids whilst the outdoor fun fair proved popular despite the weather outside.

A small Christmas market with stall holders ranging from Cumnock Academy and Buns R’ Us to local retailers such as Sloanes and Cards n’ Things. The pupils from Cumnock Academy did a roaring trade in Christmas decorations, home baking and other festive goodies.

Provost Stephanie Young switched on the Christmas Lights at 4.30pm – they were especially bright, including the new lights in the precinct funded by Cumnock Community Council and the Minerals Trust.

Provost Young also picked the winners of the Shop Local Christmas Promotion.

Kathryn Howell, Town Centre Manager said “We had a great response to the promotion this year with over 1900 entries – this is an increase on last year’s 1600 entries. The winner received £200 worth of Cumnock Shopping Vouchers and 19 runners up won £50 worth of vouchers. Dumfries House generously supplied an extra prize for this year’s promotion – a free dinner for two at their Candlelight Tour on 16th December. All the winners will be notified this week.

‘The Christmas event and promotion worked really well this year and once again, the people of Cumnock have really supported their town centre. Despite the weather, hundreds came out to support the Christmas Switch On event. We’re always trying to encourage people to “Shop Local” in Cumnock and it was great to see the shoppers and traders enjoying such a busy afternoon with a lovely festive atmosphere.’

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Hot on the heels of a £660,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Ayrshire LEADER has just awarded funding of £164,440 towards the restoration of Catrine’s unique renewable power system. The system, which . . . → Read More: Catrine Funding is Flooding In]]> Funding is flooding in for the restoration of Catrine’s 200 year old water system which once powered a cotton mill complex.

Hot on the heels of a £660,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Ayrshire LEADER has just awarded funding of £164,440 towards the restoration of Catrine’s unique renewable power system. The system, which dates from 1787 and was constructed by landowner Claud Alexander and textiles entrepreneur David Dale, consists of a weir, five reservoirs – know as the Voes, a sluice gate, a fish pass and a 450m long tunnel. It was state-of-the-art at the time, and is now designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

Catrine Community Trust, with support from East Ayrshire Council, has been battling to save the system which is deteriorating to a critical level. Sections of the weir have partially collapsed and are in danger of being washed down the river. These funding announcements complete the major funding package which will conserve the weir, and allow the upgrading of a redundant chapel to create a new Community Education and Visitor Interpretation Centre and a new Community Enterprise Centre based in an adjoining Victorian villa.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council said: “The Catrine water system is an incredibly important historical feature which, thanks to this funding, is being conserved for future generations. In addition to conserving the system, the project will also protect the River Ayr which has a rich biodiversity including otters and migratory salmon. The poor condition of the fish pass and the deterioration of the Voes are having a detrimental effect on our natural heritage but by restoring the Voes we will be able to continue to attract walkers, fishermen and bird watchers to our wonderful countryside.”

Stuart Nelson, Chair of Catrine Community Trust said: “The Trust is absolutely over the moon that we have all but completed the funding package to enable conservation works to begin next year. Catrine has big problems so big solutions have been needed. This will really put Catrine on the map. To people that ‘ken it well’ Catrine may seem like an unlikely visitor destination for tourists but the town is steeped in history and has rich stories to tell. When the education centre opens and the hydro is producing electricity they will come and this will help kickstart the regeneration of this beautiful little town.”

Big Lottery is funding environmental improvements around the nature reserve centred on Catrine Voes and a generous grant from Cumnock & Doon Valley Minerals Trust has enabled the signing of a 99 year lease on the hydro infrastructure that was not included with the remainder of the historic water system.

The 1950s hydro scheme will be restored using private finance and the resultant income will be used to maintain the water system and sustain the visitor centre. It will be an important feature of Catrine Community Powerdown, a carbon footprint reduction programme which has over the last two years helped produce massive savings of 1536 tonnes of CO2 through awareness events and working with the local schools in the Catrine community.

Notes to Editor

• The current village of Catrine began in 1787 when Claude Alexander and David Dale, from New Lanark, saw the potential of the natural resources and build a water-powered cotton mill there. The village was laid out along a central axis with the industrial buildings forming the centrepiece of the main square. Alexander and Dale built the village to house the workers, adding to it a church, school and brewery to cater for the social needs of their employees. (It is believed to be the first place where the Mill management provided innovations such as these, as well as sick play.) It is a substantially intact example of Georgian ‘town planning’ and an Outstanding Conservation area with 51 listed structures.
• The Catrine Community Powerdown project started in April 2009 and the Trust were able to employ their first staff member as a Powerdown Officer to kick off the carbon footprint reduction programme of home energy checks, provision of carbon reduction advice and also looking at some “renewable energy” generating schemes which would provide a sustainable income for the Trust. Further Climate Challenge Fund grant funding for 2 part time Energy Efficiency Advisors came along in July 2010 and April 2011 which ensured that the Powerdown team could continue their great work.
• They have been very successful and enthusiastic in running a whole series of promotional activities and events in Catrine, some in conjunction with other voluntary organisation, which have ranged from themed displays, composting, grow your own “take away”, environmentally friendly cosmetics pamper nights, fair-trade tea & chocolate sampling, Cuban theme cook school event, Eco Fair weeks and a whole range of energy efficiency benefits including home energy check visits.
• Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage. To date it has invested over £500million in Scotland’s heritage.
• Further information on Ayrshire LEADER is available here – http://www.ayrshire-leader.com/WhatIsLeader.html

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Visitors to the park have been enjoying the new duck feeding platform at the main pond which allows people to get even closer to the ducks and geese. . . . → Read More: Dean Park Volunteers]]> Volunteers from around the world have been working throughout the year with the Countryside Rangers at Dean Castle Country Park on exciting new changes and developments.

Visitors to the park have been enjoying the new duck feeding platform at the main pond which allows people to get even closer to the ducks and geese. Earlier this year volunteers from throughout Europe helped to build the platform which is part of a larger project to create a lagoon system of ponds accessible by a network of boardwalks. This project improves the landscape for wildlife and gives visitors access to an area of the park never explored before. A second group of volunteers, again from Europe, then constructed a raised pond and built a wheelchair accessible boardwalk.

This month a very enthusiastic group of teenagers from Singapore volunteered at the park. They were visiting Scotland as part of a Cultural Immersion Programme in partnership with Stewarton Academy and part of the trip saw the young people working for four days on a community project. In all weather, the 16 year olds worked incredibly hard on the lagoon project and thanks to their huge effort the raised pond is now complete and the boardwalk is ready to be opened to the public.

Councillor Kathy Morrice and Councillor John MacKay, Spokespersons for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “These very successful projects have shown us how important volunteering is to the development of the Country Park and how much can be achieved with a bit of enthusiasm. With this in mind the Countryside Rangers are establishing the Dean Castle Conservation Volunteers. The group will meet once a month and work on important changes and improvements. This is a wonderful way of making your mark on the country park.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Promoting Lifelong Learning said: “It was really heartening to see the young people working so hard in the park. They were a great bunch of students who, despite the very wet weather, displayed exceptional commitment to the project. I hope that our young people will become involved with the Dean Park Conservation Volunteers and experience the benefit of working hard for their community.”

The first Dean Castle Conservation Volunteers session will take place on Sunday 5 February on World Wetland Day. If you would like further information please contact the Rangers on 01563 554734/ info@deancastle.com

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After a weekend of gales and terrible weather the skies cleared and the event got off . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock lights up as Provost turns on Christmas Illuminations]]> The Christmas Spirit was soaring on Sunday as crowds thronged Kilmarnock Town Centre with an afternoon’s entertainment culminating in a blaze of light as Provost Stephanie Young pressed the big red button to launch this year’s Christmas Lights.

After a weekend of gales and terrible weather the skies cleared and the event got off to a great start with the parade – approx 200 people took part, all decked out in Santa hats and led by “Sum Wummin Drummin” – an Ayrshire Samba band

Kilmarnock pipe band resplendent in their kilts got into the Christmas spirit as they swapped their usual headgear for santa hats to bring up the rear.

The parade arrived at the main stage at Kilmarnock Cross to be greeted by Big Vern ’n The Shootahs whose set got the event off to a fun filled start inducing the crowd to dance in the street. The quality music continued throughout the afternoon leading up to Laura White, an X factor finalist 2008 who gave a wonderful performance, proving just what a fabulous singer she is.

Take That fans of all ages were mesmerised by “Re Take That” – with many commenting on just how realistic they were in terms of looks and sound. Host Jen McGinlay from West Sound made the most of the atmosphere, encouraging the crowd and adding to the fun.

Over in Bank Street, Silverwood Primary School kicked off the afternoon’s entertainment on the community stage with a super selection of songs. The stage was a popular draw throughout the afternoon with contributions from superbly talented Kilmarnock & East Ayrshire youngsters

With its twinkling fairy lights, the market captured the essence of Xmas with a wide range of gifts on offer. Meanwhile stilt walkers, a juggler unicyclist and two festive seagulls kept the crowds entertained.

The afternoon came to a climax with Re Take That and Provost Stephanie Young joining forces to switch on this year’s Christmas Lights.

Town Centre Manager Fiona Nicolson said: “Once again we’ve proved how great the Kilmarnock people are when it comes to supporting our town centre. Seeing the streets full of people braving the weather and the football traffic to come and enjoy the start of their Christmas shopping makes all our efforts and those of the community groups in pulling this event together worthwhile. We are all about supporting Kilmarnock as a great place to live, shop and work and today’s event has proved yet again that we can be proud of our town and our community.”

ENDS

An early start saw the Moderator visiting children and staff at Woodstock School in Kilmarnock and seeing plans for the . . . → Read More: Provost welcomes Moderator to Kilmarnock]]> Provost Stephanie Young was delighted to welcome the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, Right Reverend David Arnott to Kilmarnock for what turned out to be a very busy day!

An early start saw the Moderator visiting children and staff at Woodstock School in Kilmarnock and seeing plans for the new Willowbank School due to open next year. He then travelled to New Farm Primary and Nursery Class where the children got to present their work, after which he visited James Hamilton Academy and Kilmarnock College where the Moderator enjoyed lunch and took a tour of the college. Later in the afternoon there was a trip to the Johnnie Walker Plant where the Moderator was shown the area that will become the new college and the day’s events were rounded off nicely with a Civic Dinner hosted by the Provost at the Dower House in Kilmarnock.

As Moderator, Mr Arnott chairs the meetings of the General Assembly, and after the Assembly he spends his time in office travelling as a Church representative in the UK and overseas in an ambassadorial capacity.

Provost Young said: “It was a great honour to welcome the Moderator and his wife Rosemary to East Ayrshire and to host the civic dinner. The Moderator expressed his appreciation of the visits to the various educational establishments which he felt were an inspiration as they watched the interaction of teacher and pupil. He also believes that the local youngsters are most fortunate to have such passionate mentors.

“I have no doubt that the life of a Moderator is a hectic one, but am sure that Mr Arnott will gain much from his year in office and I wish him well in the rest of his work.”

ends

To tackle this problem the Council’s Leisure Development Section ran Men’s Health Week – encouraging men to get . . . → Read More: Mens Health Week]]> It is not a myth, it is proven that men are much less likely to use health care services and the biggest risk to men’s health is their reluctance to seek help from their GP.

To tackle this problem the Council’s Leisure Development Section ran Men’s Health Week – encouraging men to get a health MOT. Over 70 men booked an appointment with the CHIP team and had their weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose readings taken.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council was one of the first men to book an appointment. He said: “The work that the Health team do is extremely valuable and makes a considerable impact on the health of East Ayrshire residents – both through the health MOT’s and the practical advice on diet and exercise they provide. The team are extremely friendly and approachable which made my health check a more pleasant experience.”

For more information, contact Kevin Mitchell – Lifestyle Development Officer (Men’s Health) on 01563 578160.

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Regeneration is a big word in Kilmarnock these days with projects all around the town centre aimed at making . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock Pupils brighten up our bus station]]> Kilmarnock’s Bus Station is looking brighter thanks to an innovative art project with local Primary Schools with work done by pupils from Hillhead and Loanhead set in ceramics to last for many years to come.

Regeneration is a big word in Kilmarnock these days with projects all around the town centre aimed at making the town a great place to live, work and shop. Kilmarnock’s bus station has been part of the movement with a revamp designed to improve the atmosphere, including implementation of the no smoking policy. The artwork project aimed to brighten up the environment, improving travellers’ experiences as they pass through .

Design workshops involving primary 5 and 6 pupils were organised in conjunction with East Ayrshire Council’s Creative Minds team and artist Deborah Campbell.

The young people used photographs of iconic historic buildings in Kilmarnock including the Dean Castle, the train station, the old Sheriff Court, Burns Monument, the Post Office, the Cenotaph, Riccarton Parish Church, the Laigh Kirk, Bank of Scotland and the Dick Institute. Guided by Deborah they used the photos as a base to draw their own interpretations of the buildings. These were then transferred to ceramic tiles. The end results now provide a cheerful entrance to the waiting room.

Frank Carty, a local artist, also used the children’s designs to create a bright, colourful mural which has been installed on the main bus station concourse.
.
As with all the regeneration projects, from renovating historic buildings to improving lighting, street furniture and landscaping, the emphasis is as much about people as the built environment.

Fiona Nicolson, Town Centre Manager said: “The Bus Station is key entry point into town centre so we want it to create a good first impression of the town. The young people’s work has made arriving at Kilmarnock bus station a much brighter experience. I attended one of the design workshops and was very impressed with their artistry and enthusiasm for the project. They can all feel very proud knowing the part they have played in the town centre regeneration. WH Smith showed their enthusiasm for the project by donating a prize of £70 to each school as a reward for their work”

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration explains:”Regeneration is all about improving our built heritage, making the town a safe and pleasant environment, enabling people to enjoy a great quality of life. Part of this involves investing in the fabric of buildings, but just as important is investment in young people. They are the future custodians of our town. By getting our young people involved, helping them to appreciate their environment and developing pride in the town we can safeguard the future of the community for everyone’s benefit.”

ENDS

Catriona Cochrane
Public Relations Officer
East Ayrshire Council
Tel: 01563 576521
email: catriona.cochrane@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Cumnock Town Centre will come to life in a blaze of lights on Saturday 3rd December as the Christmas Lights are switched as the culmination of an afternoon of fun and entertainment.

Starting at 1.00pm the town centre will be full of festive fun as the event moves to . . . → Read More: Celebrate Christmas in Cumnock]]> Cumnock Christmas Lights Switch On

Cumnock Town Centre will come to life in a blaze of
lights on Saturday 3^rd December as the Christmas Lights are switched
as the culmination of an afternoon of fun and entertainment.

Starting at 1.00pm the town centre will be full of
festive fun as the event moves to the Square and Glaisnock Shopping Centre.

Live music and the first ever Cumnock Christmas
market will draw shoppers to the Square, while over at the Centre the fun fair
and Santa’s Grotto will provide endless fun for youngsters

The master of ceremonies at the Square will be Billy DJ
who will introduce the line up of live music for the afternoon. Cumnock has an
amazing wealth of musical talent and this event provides an ideal showcase for
their skills. Highlights include live music from Cumnock Academy, the East
Ayrshire Traditional Music Group, CAMPS, the Cumnock Chorus and the amazing
Glee Cumnock Girls Group.

Also in the Square Cumnock’s first Christmas Market will
host over 20 stalls. From local arts and crafts to home-baking and real
Christmas trees, this is a chance not to be missed. Three stalls will be taken
by pupils from Cumnock Academy, selling lovely gifts and Christmas decorations
– ideal for last-minute presents. Face-painting, ‘Owl Magic’ and cartoon
characters will keep the crowds entertained.

At the Glaisnock Shopping Centre kids of all ages will
enjoy the fun fair and Santa’s Grotto. The amazing grotto is courtesy of
Cumnock and Doon Valley Round Table who will help Santa give out his gifts
from 1pm in the Shopping Centre. This year new decorations in the precinct will
keep the Christmas cheer going for shoppers right up until the big day.

The afternoon’s festivities will finish at 4.30pm
with Provost Stephanie Young switching on the Christmas lights in the Square.

Town Centre Manager Kathryn Howell says: “We’re really
looking forward to this year’s Christmas Lights Switch On”. Over the past year
as part of our Cumnock Regeneration Scheme we’ve been making the most of the
Square as a venue for markets and entertainment so it seemed a natural step to
include it in our Christmas Festivities. It lends itself to music and markets
and we’re delighted to have both this year. The Glaisnock Centre will feature
heavily too, as a centre for kids entertainment, with the grotto and fun fair.

“The lovely feature of the celebrations this year is the
level of community involvement, with lots of local bands and groups taking part
to foster the Christmas Spirit. Community Regeneration is not just about doing
up buildings, it’s about providing a great environment for everyone to enjoy
and events like this sum up the point of all the work we’re doing to regenerate
Cumnock.”

Programme of Events for 3^rd December

MC – Billy DJ

ENDS

Catriona Cochrane

Public Relations Officer

East Ayrshire Council

Tel: 01563 576521

email: catriona.cochrane@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The new sports hall and dance studio will cater for a large number of sports including badminton, basketball, volleyball, netball and trampolining plus fitness classes including . . . → Read More: Stewarton Sports Centre only weeks from opening]]> Stewarton’s new state of the art sports centre will be opening in a matter of weeks and plans are well underway for a busy timetable of activities.

The new sports hall and dance studio will cater for a large number of sports including badminton, basketball, volleyball, netball and trampolining plus fitness classes including spin, Zumba and boot camp. After school clubs will run five days a week giving young people the chance to take part in fun filled activities in a safe and controlled environment and a body station gym, fitted out with top of the range cardio vascular and resistance equipment will cater for all levels of fitness and ability.

Councillor John McKay, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “This new sports centre will be fantastic for Stewarton and the whole area. The FIFA 1 accredited floodlit synthetic grass pitch will be a winner with local footballers as it can be used all year round, and with such a wide range of classes available, and a body station gym, I know that the people of Stewarton, Dunlop and Kilmaurs will make the most of everything it has to offer.”

The centre will be open Monday to Friday from 10am to 10pm and Saturday and Sunday 10am to 6pm.

Bookings are already being taken, with selected discounts available. Block bookings are currently VAT free and a 30% discount will be offered to all club bookings affiliated to the local sports council within East Ayrshire.

For more information please contact Community Recreation on 01563 554057.

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The ceremony recognised our most talented athletes and also the incredible contribution made to sport locally by coaches and sport leaders. It was the perfect occasion to recognise the achievements of Claire Johnston of . . . → Read More: Stars of the future celebrated]]> East Ayrshire’s sporting stars and local unsung heroes were honoured at the recent Sports Council and Talented Athlete Awards Ceremony.

The ceremony recognised our most talented athletes and also the incredible contribution made to sport locally by coaches and sport leaders. It was the perfect occasion to recognise the achievements of Claire Johnston of Auchinleck Indoor Bowling Club and Georgi Black, Graeme Kane, Craig Caffrey and Peter Kirkbride of Kilmarnock Amateur Weightlifting Club.

All are in training at the moment and are hopeful of inclusion in the official GB and Scotland squads for the 2012 Olympics in London and 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council said: “These volunteers and coaches are committed to delivering sport locally and supporting young athletes who represent our sporting hopes for the future. I am very proud of their achievements and I am sure there is still much more to come.

“This is a very exciting time for sport. In seven months time the Olympic Games will start in London and on Friday 8 June, the Olympic Torch will enter East Ayrshire, giving our communities a once in a lifetime opportunity to view the most famous flame in the world.”

Winners of the East Ayrshire Sports Council Awards were:
Disabled Sports Person of the Year –
Ryan Deans from Sports for Special Needs Kilmarnock Jets Swim Team
Service to Sport Award –
Jim Young of Kilmarnock Harriers & Athletic Club
Individual Performance of the Year Award –
Georgi Black from Kilmarnock Amateur Weightlifting Club
Team Performance of the Year –
Kilmarnock Rugby Football Club 1st XV Team
Jim Higgins Youth Sports Personality of the Year Award –
Murrie Robertson from Sports for Special Needs Kilmarnock Jets Swim Team
Club of the Year Award –
Kilmarnock Harriers & Athletic Club

Talented Athlete Awards for Developing Potential:

Adam El Shafei Sakai
Adam Hall Under 19 Scotland Squad
Andrew Redmayne Dundee HSFP
Callum MacMillan National Development Squad
Christopher Wasdworth Bearsden Ski Club
Conor McCallum Solway Sharks
Dale Cree KAWC
Darren John Dunlop Sakai
Deirdre Nagle PD National Squad
Emma Cook Hurlford Badminton Club
Fiona Wilson Galleon/Riccarton
Gary Kelly Sakai
Graham Babes British Show Jumping
James Milton Hurlford Badminton Club
James Reed Kilmarnock Phoenix
Jemma Lewis East Kilbride
John Campbell Drongan TTA
Joshua Rutnagur GHA
Kaity Hall Strathclyde University
Kirsten Geals Grange Church Club
Kyle Pearson KAWC
Lewis Gallacher National Squad
Michael McRobert Kilmarnock Phoenix
Natalie Nicol Sakai
Peter Redmayne KRFC
Robbie Muirhead Kilmarnock FC
Scott Jackson City of Glasgow Swim Team

Talented Athlete Awards for Podium Potential:

Georgi Black KAWC
Craig Carfray KAWC
Graeme Kane KAWC
Peter Kirkbride KAWC
Claire Johnston Auchinleck Indoor Bowling Club

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The first planting phase of the Pinetum Restoration Project at Dean Park took place in October 2010 and now the project has entered phase II, an opportunity has arisen to sponsor a tree at the cost . . . → Read More: Sponsor a tree at Dean Castle]]> Dean Castle Country Park is holding a Pinetum and Arboretum Planting Day on Sunday 15 January 2012.

The first planting phase of the Pinetum Restoration Project at Dean Park took place in October 2010 and now the project has entered phase II, an opportunity has arisen to sponsor a tree at the cost of £20. This includes the cost of the tree and an engraved plaque.

The original Pinetum was created between 1936 and 1938. It contained a collection of over one hundred individual specimen trees from all over the world. 21 of the original conifer trees still exist within the Pinetum.

This project is just one of the exciting projects planned for Dean Castle Country Park which will not only enhance the existing surroundings but will also help to restore some of the original designed landscape.

You can view the list of trees available for sponsorship at the park’s Visitor Centre or at the Rangers Office at the Field Centre.

If you would like to sponsor a tree please call in at the Visitor Centre where staff will be happy to help you with further information. Alternatively, you can contact Linzi Barr, Countryside Ranger by emailing Lindsay.Barr2@east-ayrshire.gov.uk or by telephoning 01563 554738.

Recycling helps preserve natural resources for future generations. It reduces the need for raw materials; it also uses less energy, therefore preserving natural resources for the future. Waste . . . → Read More: Recycling Initiative at the Dean]]> New recycling bins have been put in place at Dean Castle Country Park and we need your support to help reduce the amount of waste produced.

Recycling helps preserve natural resources for future generations. It reduces the need for raw materials; it also uses less energy, therefore preserving natural resources for the future. Waste also has a negative impact on the natural environment and recycling helps reduce the pollution caused by waste which in turn causes habitat destruction and global warming.

Did you know that each ton of paper recycled can save 17 trees, 380 gallons of oil and 7000 gallons of water? Or that by recycling you can save 1,100lbs of waste each year – that’s over half a ton!

Please support this recycling initiative and help staff look after the natural environment of the country park.

For more information contact the country park on 01563 554734 or email info@deancastle.com

Crystal, Prince and Lexi are enthralling visitors with their gentle temperament and inquisitive nature. Male llamas are very protective of their group and have been used successfully in other parks to keep predators . . . → Read More: Llama trio moves into Dean Castle Country Park]]> Three lovely Llamas have moved to Dean Castle Country Park in Kilmarnock and are settling in well to their new surroundings.

Crystal, Prince and Lexi are enthralling visitors with their gentle temperament and inquisitive nature. Male llamas are very protective of their group and have been used successfully in other parks to keep predators from attacking lambs and ducks. The Rangers are hoping the llamas will prove to be good companions for the park’s deer herd.

Dean Castle and Country Park is a fantastic free day out for the whole family and during the winter is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

For more information contact 01563 554734 or visit www.deancastle.com.

An extensive programme of renovations was unveiled as Provost Stephanie Young, councillors and representatives of the British Legion Scotland and Kilmarnock Academy gathered on 11/11 for . . . → Read More: Cenotaph renovation provides fitting backdrop for 11/11 remembrance]]> Kilmarnock’s Cenotaph was in tip top condition for the Remembrance Day Parade on Sunday thanks to the combined efforts of East Ayrshire Council and the Royal British Legion.

An extensive programme of renovations was unveiled as Provost Stephanie Young, councillors and representatives of the British Legion Scotland and Kilmarnock Academy gathered on 11/11 for a two minute silence ahead of Sunday’s remembrance parade.

The B listed building, known locally as the “Temple of Mercy” opened on 21st May 1927. It was designed James Millar and commemorates the fallen in every conflict since the First World War. It is now in first class order, with a newly created inscription and repairs made to the roof, lead work, ballasters, railing, guttering and windows.

Provost Young commended the work saying: “The works which have been carried out have enhanced and safeguarded this beautiful monument for future generations. Our architects and builders went to great lengths to design and source authentic materials to ensure that all the renovations were sympathetic to the original design. In addition, at the request of the Royal British Legion, a stonemason spent ten days painstakingly carving the new Second World War text “In memory of the fallen 1939 – 1945 “lest we forget” which complements the existing First World War text.

“As a result we can all be proud of what is a truly fitting monument to those who gave so much.”

Provost Stephanie Young presented the medals to the team at a presentation which was also attended by the . . . → Read More: Ayrshire wins the shield!]]> After competing in the Scottish Regions Shield for 20 years, Ayrshire is celebrating its first ever win, having beaten Dundee 2 – 1 in an exciting final at the Sir Alex Ferguson ground at Braehead, Glasgow.

Provost Stephanie Young presented the medals to the team at a presentation which was also attended by the other two Ayrshire Provosts, Winnie Sloan and Pat McPhee. Provost Young said: “I heard that the boys built up a great bond throughout the campaign and it’s to their immense credit that, at no point, did they pick up any bookings. Their team spirit is incredible and they are a real credit to their coaches, their parents and Ayrshire.”

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, officially opened the festival prior to the Elaine C Smith . . . → Read More: Imprint celebrates 5th birthday with record number of visitors]]> Imprint, East Ayrshire’s book festival, has become a cultural highlight over recent years and last week it celebrated its 5th birthday. Many events were sold out and audiences were treated to a week packed with literary gems.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, officially opened the festival prior to the Elaine C Smith event which had sold out in a matter of days. Audiences were enthralled by Elaine’s wit, humorous stories and the Rab C Nesbit star even had the audience singing along to Cliff Richard classic Living Doll.

On Tuesday night, Mary Contini, writer, cook and director of the famous deli Valvona & Crolla in Edinburgh entertained the crowd with tales of her Scottish-Italian roots. Interviewed by The List food editor and critic Donald Reid, Mary captivated the audience with her memories of growing up in Scotland above the family fish and chip shop and how she became the successful business woman she is today. The audience were then treated to a selection of fine foods and wine from her wonderful deli.

Kilmarnock authors and Imprint patrons, Zoe Strachan and William McIlvanney made a welcome return to their home turf for an evening of readings, politics and reflection. Zoe read from her latest novel Ever Fallen in Love which has recently been shortlisted for the national Green Carnation Prize. William McIlvanney was on vintage form and selected a series of readings and poetry for a highly emotive performance.

The week continued with Scotland on Sunday Literary Editor Stuart Kelly interviewing author Neil Forysth, best known for his books revolving round his alter-ego Bob Servant. Author James Robertson then took to the stage with Kelly and lived up to his reputation as one of the major literary forces of our age.

The festival finale was a major coup for East Ayrshire. Author, visual artist and perhaps the most revered living writer in the country, Alasdair Gray, made a rare public appearance. The audience were treated to a reading of unpublished work as well as some of his better-known pieces. As one audience member commented on Twitter “Era-defining James Robertson last night, tonight it’s Alasdair Gray. How much literary genius can Killie handle?”

Throughout the week almost 1000 children had been treated to a programme tailored specifically for them. For the first year, Imprint teamed up with Glow, the Scottish schools’ network to broadcast author events throughout the country. 3500 pupils from Stranraer to Orkney tuned in to watch the Burns Monument Centre author events live on screen.

As Councillor Reid brought the festival to an official close, he said: “Imprint is a fantastic local book festival which has grown dramatically to rival even the greatest of festivals. To have the likes of the Elaine C Smith and Mary Contini entertaining our audiences with raucous tales, songs and amazing food then Zoe Strachan and William McIlvanney delivering wonderful, thought provoking readings is just incredible. Finishing the festival with one of the greatest Scottish authors of all time, Alasdair Gray, was a real coup for Imprint and an evening I will never forget. I would like to echo the sentiment of many of my fellow audience members – roll on Imprint 2012!”

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Kilmarnock Town Centre will be bursting with entertainment on Sunday 27th November as entertainers and community groups come together to provide a spectacular afternoon of shopping, music and fun culminating in the switch on of the Christmas Lights.

The fun kicks off with The Big Christmas Parade, packed with revellers representing local community . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock set to buzz as community join lights switch on]]>

Kilmarnock Town Centre will be bursting with entertainment on Sunday 27th November as entertainers and community groups come together to provide a spectacular afternoon of shopping, music and fun culminating in the switch on of the Christmas Lights.

The fun kicks off with The Big Christmas Parade, packed with revellers representing local community organisations which leaves Howard Park at 1.30pm, makes its way up John Finnie Street and progresses along West George Street before ending up at the Cross.

At the Cross, Jen McGinlay from West Sound will be on the Main Stage to introduce “Re Take That” a tribute band so good that even Jason Orange said ““Its just like watching my mates on stage…brilliant!! The attention to detail is amazing.” They are just the first in a line up of bands playing all afternoon.

Meanwhile, over in Bank Street and Bank Place, the Christmas Market will be in full swing, accompanied by music and dance from community organisations such as East Ayrshire Youth Theatre and Centrestage Dance Troupe. Facepainters and street entertainers will be doing their rounds and for those little people needing to have a wee word with Santa, he will be in his grotto in Cheapside Street all afternoon.

Shoppers will find parking easy too, as the Multi Storey car park in the town centre, will open specially for the day from 10.00am until 6.00pm and will be absolutely free.

The afternoon will culminate in spectacular illumination as Provost Stephanie Young switches on the Christmas lights at 5.00pm

Fiona Nicolson, Kilmarnock Town Centre Manager said: “We’re really looking forward to some cracking entertainment for the Christmas Lights Switch on this year. Last year we pioneered the community stage with tremendous success – having two stages means a huge variety of music to keep shoppers happy all afternoon wherever they are shopping. And with acts like Big Vern and the Shootas, Laura White (X factor finalist) and Re Take That there is something for everyone to enjoy.

“This event is all about encouraging local people to take a pride in their town and support local businesses by shopping locally. Free parking in the multi-storey will make it easier for everyone. All our community groups have been really keen to get involved in the Big Parade and on the Community Stage making it a real fun celebration for the people of Kilmarnock.”

13: 30 The Big Christmas Parade
Departs Howard Park, up John Finnie Street, along West George Street
and down to the Cross.

14.00 The Main Stage at The Cross
MC –Jen McGinley from West Sound

Re Take That
Big Vern ‘n The Shootahs
Centrestage Gospel & Soul Choir
Unsigned Unlimited
Laura White (X Factor finalist 2008)
Re Take That
Provost
17.00 Lights Switch On
Re Take That

13.30 Christmas Market in Bank Place / Bank Street

14.00 Community Stage in Bank Street

Silverwood Primary
All Time High
Kilmarnock academy
Gregor Keachie & Steven McIlwraith – Jazz Duo
East Ayrshire Youth Theatre
CentreStage Dance Troupe
Boys 2 Men

13.30 Kiddies ride at Foregate
Santas Grotto at Cheapside Street
Face Painters
Street Entertainment

Details of Entertainers

Re Take That

Re Take that is not your average tribute band. Putting on a show so professional and accurate that if Take That themselves came to see it, they’d be impressed …which is just what happened when Jason Orange saw them …. “Its just like watching my mates on stage…brilliant!! The attention to detail is amazing.”

More than simply a band, Re Take that combine huge personalities, superb vocals and great dance routines. Lorraine Kelly commented “A fantastic show, so entertaining, sexy and amazing great fun”

Re Take that will put on an exceptional show and for all Take That fans – old and new, young and not so young – this is not to be missed.

Big Vern n the Shootahs

Think The Commitments, Think The Blues Brothers………Big Vern n the Shootahs are a powerhouse 9 piece phenomenon from Glasgow who have been rocking audiences all over the UK since 1989. With awesome horn players, the best rhythm section in the business, the funkiest guitarist you’ll ever hear and vocals that’ll make your hair stand on end, this is a band you will never forget.

Centrestage Soul & Gospel Choir

This unique Kilmarnock group have become increasingly well known for their uplifting performances. The choir is comprised entirely of local people from all backgrounds who all love to perform. Their set is packed full of energising ballads and without a doubt, they will raise a smile and get those feet tapping!

Unsigned Unlimited no

UNSIGNED:UNLIMITED is an exciting project funded by East Ayrshire Council and Creative Scotland Youth Music Initiative. Open to 14 – 21 year olds, the project looks at song writing, invention, composition, recording and live performance. They have recently recorded their debut CD and are a tremendous example of some of East Ayrshire’s great and talented young people.

Laura White

One of the finalists in X Factor 2008, Laura was favourite to win every single week of the finals she was present. Gaining unbelievable praise and adulation form the judges and fans around the world, Laura was branded ‘Worldclass.’ Laura’s subsequent shocking exit from the show was named the ‘ biggest controversy in TV history’ with over 150,000 people petitioning for her return, her name discussed in parliament and thousands of viewers stating they could never watch the show again.
An amazing talent, an incredible voice.

This hotly anticipated project, which was developed by the Leisure Development section with helpful advice from Kilmarnock Skateboard Group (KSG), was literally rolled out under . . . → Read More: There is no need to be board now!]]> Over 40 Skateboarders, BMX bikers and In-line Skaters were carving, airwalk grabbing and rocking and rolling at St Joseph’s Academy for the launch of East Ayrshire’s new Mobile Skatepark.

This hotly anticipated project, which was developed by the Leisure Development section with helpful advice from Kilmarnock Skateboard Group (KSG), was literally rolled out under the bright lights of St Joseph’s car park.

KSG, which was set up in 2010 with support from East Ayrshire Council’s Community Learning and Development Department, were instrumental in the acquisition of the skatepark which consists of a range of ramps, grind rails and tables which fold together to fit onto a trailer. The trailer itself is a major part of the equipment as it folds out to create a three sided table with grind box.

Chris Mooney, Chair of KSG said “The Mobile Skatepark is a great piece of equipment which offers us a good opportunity to grow the sports of Skateboarding, BMX & In-line skating. The KSG aim is to get a static Skatepark built within Kilmarnock and being able to grow demand for it may encourage investment from private businesses!”

Leader of the Council, Councillor Douglas Reid said: “The Mobile Skatepark will make a great addition to East Ayrshire Council’s innovative diversionary sports portfolio. There is no doubt that many communities in East Ayrshire have shown a demand for this type of activity and to be able to provide a custom built mobile skatepark will allow every community to benefit!”

To find out more about the Mobile Skatepark check out the ‘Eac Sport’ Facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/eac.sport

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Onthank Primary School very kindly offered their school grounds and gym hall facilities to the Athletics Partnership to host the popular cross country event at . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire schools rise to the cross country challenge]]> Hundreds of primary and secondary pupils from schools across East Ayrshire gathered at Onthank Primary School for the annual school cross country event organised by East Ayrshire Athletics Partnership.

Onthank Primary School very kindly offered their school grounds and gym hall facilities to the Athletics Partnership to host the popular cross country event at short notice after the initial event was cancelled due to severe weather earlier in the month. The large open grass area that stretches out beyond the school made for a challenging yet fun course, which soon became muddy after the first race. Weather conditions were ideal for cross country and with 670 primary school pupils and 115 secondary pupils competing there was an exciting atmosphere on the day.

Separate races were held for boys and girls within their age categories. All participants showed great determination striving to be the first over the finish line and to complete the course in the quickest time possible to gain the team prize for their school. Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd were awarded and points to those who finished in the first 20 places.

The results showed a mix of winners from the primary schools but overall the pupils from Gargieston Primary School gained the majority of points and therefore the team prize.

James Hamilton Academy had the majority of athletes finishing in the first three but Cumnock Academy’s overall performance meant they were crowned Secondary School Cross Country Champions.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing, who attended the event said: “I’m truly impressed with the commitment and determination of the children and young people competing in the cross country races. It is great to see so many schools from across East Ayrshire Council involved and I hope that the talent I have seen today progresses in the sport.”

The Cross Country event is just one example of how East Ayrshire Partnership uses collaboration and shared resources to achieve maximum participation and success.
The Partnership is a forum comprising of membership from Leisure Development Services, Kilmarnock Harriers AAC, Education and Social Services and scottishathletics who work together to deliver a variety of school, community and club programmes and events.

For more information on athletics please contact Louise West, Athletics and Facility Development Officer on 01563 576713.

Full List of Results

P6 Boys- 1000m
Position Name School
1st Callan Veitch Netherthird Primary School
2nd Ross Love Crosshouse Primary School
3rd David Stark Gargieston Primary School

P6 Girls- 1000m
Position Name School
1st Katie McConnell Annanhill Primary school
2nd Rochelle Carpenter Kirkstyle Primary school
3rd Erin Connelly Onthank Primary school

P7 Boys- 1400m
Position Name School
1st Connor Smith Onthank Primary school
2nd Marc Irvine Annanhill Primary school
3rd Kevin O’ Donnell Annanhill Primary School

P7 Girls- 1400m
Position Name School
1st Evie Bartl Gargieston Primary School
2nd Katie Greensmith Silverwood Primary School
3rd Sara Irvine Kirkstyle Primary School
Overall Primary School Winner 2011 -Gargieston Primary School

S1 Boys- 2000m
Position Name School
1st Mark Kerr James Hamilton Academy
2nd Taylor Davidson Loudoun Academy
3rd Andrew McAtee Cumnock Academy

S1 Girls- 2000m
Position Name School
1st Caitlin McClounie Cumnock Academy
2nd Lauren Park James Hamilton
3rd Olivia Cochrane James Hamilton

S2 Boys- 2000m
Position Name School
1st Euan Moore Loudoun Academy
2nd Callum Smith James Hamilton Academy
3rd Kyle Gilroy James Hamilton Academy

S2 Girls- 2000m
Position Name School
1st Abbie Robinson Cumnock Academy
2nd Katie Vallance Cumnock Academy
3rd Laura Stephen James Hamilton Academy

S3 Boys- 3000m
Position Name School
1st Josh Aitken James Hamilton Academy
2nd Callum McQuade James Hamilton Academy
3rd Terry Mulholland Kilmarnock Academy

S3 Girls- 3000m
Position Name School
1st Laura Duncan Loudoun Academy
2nd Alanis Brydon Kilmarnock Academy
3rd Aiesha McKay Cumnock Academy

Overall Secondary School Winner 2011- Cumnock Academy

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The automated public convenience located within the Foregate will be available to members of the public during this time.

Presented by APSE (Association for Public Service Excellence) the awards ceremony was held at the Hilton Hotel York. From an initial pool of 35 nominees . . . → Read More: Stacey is plum perfect!]]> Stewarton girl Stacey Redmond has proved she’s one of the best young plumbers around after becoming a UK finalist in the Female Mechanical and Electrical Apprentice of the Year.

Presented by APSE (Association for Public Service Excellence) the awards ceremony was held at the Hilton Hotel York. From an initial pool of 35 nominees drawn from 250 local authorities, Stacey, an apprentice with East Ayrshire Council, was one of four finalists invited to the event.

For Stacey, aged 19, picking up awards is becoming a regular occurrence. Ayr College awarded her a Certificate of Merit in recognition of the consistently high standard of work in her first year. She also gained a Highly Commended Certificate in East Ayrshire Council’s “Apprentice of the Year” awards.

Stacey’s tutor at Ayr College said “Stacey shows true leadership qualities in her class group and has embraced her introduction to the plumbing industry with great enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

“Regularly scoring 100% in the “SOLAR” online assessments, she came top of her year and was awarded “Best First Year Apprentice” by Ayr College. She has all the attributes to progress to becoming a competent trades person working to the highest standards.”

Stacey said:” I enjoy plumbing because I am always learning and adapting new techniques. You are independent and helping people with your trade. East Ayrshire Council is a great place to work and learn a variety of different aspects of plumbing and I have worked with a lot of people and squads. All of the tradesmen have taught me many skills. I enjoy working on bathrooms and kitchen installation because every day is different and I get to see other trades at work.

“For the future I hope to finish my apprenticeship and work for the Council who trained me. I want to give something back because they gave me the opportunity to become a plumber.”

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration also attended the awards, picking up an award for East Ayrshire Council in recognition of their long term investment in the apprentice scheme and commitment to local employment. He said: “I was delighted to pick up this award on behalf of the Council who put such effort into helping young people into quality long term employment through a large number of initiatives including apprenticeships and training schemes run by our Skills Development and Employability Service.

“It was particularly satisfying to accompany Stacey as she received her well deserved award. She is a great ambassador for East Ayrshire apprenticeships. Living and educated locally she is now excelling in a job which will contribute to the local economy and help many people for years to come. Seeing young people blossom and gain in confidence through work and training is all part of our wider plan of regeneration in East Ayrshire.”

If the bonfires are lit these contents are dangerous and pose a serious risk . . . → Read More: Remember, Remember..Bonfire safety this 5th November]]> Inspections of bonfires by the Police, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue and the Council have revealed that dangerous items are being used to build fires including – wheelie bins, tyres, paint, gas canisters and a combination of commercial and domestic waste.

If the bonfires are lit these contents are dangerous and pose a serious risk to not only members of the public and surrounding properties, but also to the Emergency Services who are called to extinguish the fires.

The best way to protect your family and your property stop is to alert the Council before the fire is lit and have it removed.

If you see a Bonfire being built in and around your community please contact: 01563 553950.

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Cumnock Town Manager Kathryn Howell is launching her second Christmas “Shop Local” campaign following the success of last year’s prize draw. The promotion runs from Monday 31st October to Friday 2nd . . . → Read More: Christmas shop local promotion for Cumnock]]> Christmas is coming to Cumnock and for some lucky people shopping vouchers worth up to £200 will help to get those vital presents!

Cumnock Town Manager Kathryn Howell is launching her second Christmas “Shop Local” campaign following the success of last year’s prize draw. The promotion runs from Monday 31st October to Friday 2nd December. Shoppers who spend £15 or more in a participating retailer in Cumnock Town Centre will be entered into a draw to win a share of a £1200 prize fund.

Kathryn Howell said ‘We are building on last year’s very successful campaign which saw more than 1,600 people enter the prize draw by shopping locally. I’m sure we’ll beat that figure this year and help local shops to have a good Christmas and encourage residents to shop locally.’

The campaign aims to promote the quality and range of the town’s independent retailers and encourage residents to do their festive shopping locally. The first prize is £200 worth of Cumnock Town Centre shopping vouchers. In addition, there will be 20 runner-up prizes of a £50 Cumnock shopping vouchers. The vouchers can only be exchanged at participating retailers and the retailer will then redeem the vouchers from the Council. Look out for the shop local poster in participating retailers.

The prizes will be drawn by Provost Stephanie Young at the Cumnock Christmas Light Switch On Event, which will be in the Square this year, on Saturday 3rd December.

Taking place at the Kay Park, Kilmarnock on Saturday 5th November, the annual Fireworks Display regularly attracts crowds from all over Ayrshire and beyond, making it one of the biggest events in the south west of Scotland. The Council . . . → Read More: Family fireworks will be a blast!]]> This year’s East Ayrshire Family Fireworks will explode in style thanks to new sponsor CBC.

Taking place at the Kay Park, Kilmarnock on Saturday 5th November, the annual Fireworks Display regularly attracts crowds from all over Ayrshire and beyond, making it one of the biggest events in the south west of Scotland. The Council is asking for a £1 donation on the night to help support the event, which isn’t bad at all for a Saturday night out!

James McAlpine, Managing Director of CBC said: “We are delighted to sponsor this fantastic event in East Ayrshire. We are currently working on two projects in Kilmarnock: the new athletics facility at Queens Drive and an office development at the former Opera House in John Finnie Street, and we welcome every opportunity to support local community events and initiatives. We share Strathclyde Fire and Rescue’s feelings about the safety aspect of having an organised firework event and we would encourage families to come along and enjoy fireworks in a safe environment.”

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council, added: “An estimated 30,000 people came along to enjoy the spectacular fireworks last year and we expect bumper numbers again as there is plenty for the whole family to enjoy.”

Activities will kick-off at 6.30pm with live music on the main stage featuring ‘The Symptoms’ and the event will be compered by West FM’s Colin McArdle. There’s also a family funfair to entertain the children but the fireworks are the main attraction, and with the display supported by an impressive lighting display and a massive sound system, there is no doubt that Alan Hillary’s award winning Reaction Fireworks Display will once again be a breathtaking spectacle. The first rocket will explode into the night sky at 7.40pm so don’t be late!

With free parking available in the town centre car parks, remember Kay Park is only a short stroll away or you can park your car a bit closer at St. Joseph’s Leisure Centre for a minimum donation of £2. Spaces are limited, and on a first come first served basis.
For further information visit www.eac.eu/fireworks or telephone 01563 554081.

“Following discussions with . . . → Read More: Palace Theatre shows move to Grand Hall]]> The Palace Theatre stage continues to experience water penetration problems due to the recent roof works. Adam Geary, Arts and Museums Manager, East Ayrshire Council says
“As a result of health and safety concerns, we have taken the decision to move all of this week’s shows to the Grand Hall.

“Following discussions with the promoters of the following shows: an evening with Joan Charles and Kyle Gray; and Rat Pack, a decision was taken by promoters to cancel both shows. A full refund will be given and our Box Office team at The Palace will endeavour to contact all ticket holders.

“Our show scheduled for Thursday 2oth October – How the Koala Learnt to Hug will take place in the Grand Hall.

“The staff team at The Palace and Grand Hall Complex have worked tirelessly to make sure that we were able to meet our various show commitments. By creating an intimate theatre space in the Grand Hall we have been able to continue providing an enjoyable experience for our customers. It is envisaged that the theatre stage will be fully operational by week beginning 24th October.”

Twenty six two bedroom bungalows have been built at Newlands Drive for our older and ambulant disabled residents. The homes have been very cleverly designed keeping their complex needs in mind from the outset.

Councillor Jim . . . → Read More: New housing for Newlands Drive, Kilmarnock]]> Boxes are being unpacked and new neighbours are settling into their beautiful new homes at Newlands Drive, Onthank.

Twenty six two bedroom bungalows have been built at Newlands Drive for our older and ambulant disabled residents. The homes have been very cleverly designed keeping their complex needs in mind from the outset.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration. “It is already clear that the new homes are bringing to many benefits to the lives of the new tenants – they are bright, beautifully finished and handy for the shops and on local bus routes. They occupy a site that had been cleared of housing many years ago so our building programme has also helped to regenerate the area.

“The houses have been very cleverly designed and include wet room bathrooms and easily accessible kitchens, which are already greatly appreciated by those who live there. They will have a positive effect on local families – moving our older residents into homes suitable for their needs we are frees up family sized homes for local families. We will be making announcements about further developments in the coming months”

Local elected members Councillors Helen Coffey, Willie Coffey and Maureen McKay, visited the new residents to congratulate them on their new homes.

The properties have been developed by Atrium Initiatives on behalf of the Council through a Development Agreement using their approved Consultants, and have been built by McTaggart Construction as Atrium’s Framework Contractor.

The Council’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) 2011/ 2012 – 2015/ 2016, which was approved by Cabinet in November 2010, sets out the Council’s forward Affordable Housing Investment Plan programme for the next five years, and allows for the development of fifty new Council houses across East Ayrshire.

Nigel was accompanied on site by Council Leader, Councillor Douglas Reid with staff from the Council’s Leisure Services who are already preparing for the opening . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock Athletics is on track]]> Nigel Holl, the CEO of Scottish Athletics was in East Ayrshire last week to see firsthand the progress at Kilmarnock’s new Athletics and Sports Facility at Queens Drive.

Nigel was accompanied on site by Council Leader, Councillor Douglas Reid with staff from the Council’s Leisure Services who are already preparing for the opening of the state of the art multi million pound facility. The build, which is a very important part of the Council’s extensive Capital Programme, will make a huge impact not only on the sporting performance of athletes across South West Scotland but also on the health and wellbeing of the local population.

Louise West from the Council’s Sport Development team said: “We are so excited about the opening of the facility. Athletics in East Ayrshire has never been in a better place, we have a brilliant club in the Kilmarnock Harriers who also now deliver activities in the Cumnock Area, we have a really strong Athletics Partnership which drives activities in both schools and communities and this facility will allow us to do so much more. We’ve got plans for the development of disability athletics, active programmes for older people, pre-five and school age coaching, Friday night activities for young folk and of course as well as all of this we hope to bring some of the highest performance athletes in the country here to inspire our children even more!”

The new facility looks set to open early next summer, right on time for the start of the 2012 Olympics and it is hoped that the venue, which includes a state of the art outdoor surface and an indoor sprint straight, will be used as a training camp in the lead up to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, 2014.

Council Leader Douglas Reid was pleased with the progress on the site so far and with plans for the facility opening. He said: “Actually getting on site and seeing the quality of the facility makes it clear to me that we are moving in the right direction in terms of promoting healthy and active living locally. It’s great that Nigel was able to visit the site and I know we will see huge progress in Athletics as a result of this new facility. There are also plans in place to engage more people in physical activity across our communities and I think the facility has potential to really inspire all sorts of people not only the serious athletes!”

As well as visiting the new facility the Scottish Athletics Chief also attended a meeting of the East Ayrshire Athletics Partnership alongside members of the Kilmarnock Harriers. He was impressed by both the facility and the partnership work taking place to develop the sport. He said: “There are some very exciting and optimistic developments taking place for athletics in Kilmarnock and East Ayrshire. The fantastic new track and field facility – complete with a well thought through indoor training area, will be the envy of many communities across Scotland. It will be fantastic for the club, schools, and community use, and will provide a very visible focal point for athletics in the area. Excellent facilities are not the whole picture however, and the equally encouraging aspect is the approach adopted by the club and East Ayrshire Council working so effectively together – focusing on the “people” side of the sport – coaches, officials, volunteers – the lifeblood of any sport and essential to developing further opportunities for young and old alike in athletics.

“Scottishathletics is delighted to be part of that approach, and is very grateful to the council for their commitment and investment. We look forward to the opening in 2012, and to the new facility becoming home to vibrant activity for all disciplines of athletics – with and through the club!”

Look out for more information on the opening of the facility coming soon as well as exciting information about getting you and your family more active in the lead up to the 2012 Olympics.

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The awards are given for works of art and craft designed to enhance and enrich the built environment and the Lady’s Walk Seating, which is a key part . . . → Read More: National Recognition for the Lady’s Walk]]> The Lady’s Walk Seating within Howard Park has been recognised nationally with an award at the recent Saltire Society’s Arts and Crafts in Architecture Awards.

The awards are given for works of art and craft designed to enhance and enrich the built environment and the Lady’s Walk Seating, which is a key part of the Artists Work in Public Places project, has received a Commendation.

The Howard Park project involved children from Gargieston Primary and focussed on the history of the park and in particular the folklore surrounding the nightly walks of the ghost of Lady Anne Boyd. It is said that Lady Anne, who had lived at the Howard Park with her husband, William Boyd, the fourth and last Earl of Kilmarnock, died of a broken heart when he was hung, drawn and quartered in 1746 for supporting the Jacobite Rebellion.

The children worked closely with the Arts and Museum team behind the project; Senior Arboricultural Officer, David Law and local artist John Crosby of Island View Workshops to create visual imagery to reflect the history of the park utilising Aston Carle’s poem – The Lady’s Walk. The designed images were then laser cut in steel to form the tops of the circular tree benches which now adorn Howard Park.

Councillor Iain Linton, Depute Leader of the Council attended the award ceremony held at the Burrell last week. He said: “It is fantastic that this wonderful project has been recognised by such a highly respected body as the Saltire Society. The project has without doubt achieved its aim which was to improve key areas identified for regeneration by creating original sculptures but that is just the tip of the iceberg. The young people have been enabled to work closely with highly respected artists, to think deeply about their locality and its place within history and have helped to produce beautiful sculptural artworks – making their own very positive mark on the history of Kilmarnock which will be shared with generations of their own families to come.”

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The Council needs your support and is seeking a Pound for the Guy to help fund the spectacular event. Strathclyde Fire and Rescue were first to offer their support with a very generous . . . → Read More: Remember, remember to support your local fieworks display]]> The skies above Kay Park will be lit with breath-taking fireworks on Saturday 5 November at East Ayrshire Council’s official display.

The Council needs your support and is seeking a Pound for the Guy to help fund the spectacular event. Strathclyde Fire and Rescue were first to offer their support with a very generous donation of £3,000 towards the cost of the display.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “I am delighted that Strathclyde Fire and Rescue has made such a large donation towards the cost of the fireworks display. Last year 30,000 people from all over the west of Scotland converged on Kay Park enjoying what everyone agreed was a truly spectacular night. Fireworks are magical, especially for children, but they are also incredibly dangerous if used wrongly. Half of all firework injuries each year are suffered by children – please don’t risk a home display, for just a pound you can enjoy the best show in town!”

Strathclyde Fire and Rescue’s Tony Waters said: “We are very supportive of the firework display at Kay Park. This will allow the local residents to enjoy the big night in a safe and controlled environment. It is critical to Strathclyde Fire and Rescue that we reduce the potential for rogue bonfires and individuals using Fireworks, which a public event helps to do. On the 5th of November our Fire Crews require to be available to protect the communities of Ayrshire and not tied up at minor refuse fires.”

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Called “Is someone else paying the price of your drinking?” the campaign kicked off with the CHiP van at Kilmarnock Cross with staff from NHS . . . → Read More: Alcohol Awareness Week – what does your drinking do to those around you?]]> Drinking too much alcohol can have a devastating effect on people’s lives. A new campaign launched this week highlights the devastating consequences of excessive consumption for the whole community.

Called “Is someone else paying the price of your drinking?” the campaign kicked off with the CHiP van at Kilmarnock Cross with staff from NHS Ayrshire and Arran, East Ayrshire Council, Strathclyde Police and Strathclyde Fire and Rescue on hand to offer advice and tips on safer drinking. During the week the van will park in public areas across East Ayrshire including Kilmarnock, Stewarton and Cumnock.

Drinking too much alcohol often leads to other problems such as domestic abuse, accidental fires, violence and crime. The campaign will challenges everyone to think about the potential impact of our drinking. To reduce the effect on others, East Ayrshire residents will be given useful tips on how to stick within sensible drinking guidelines. These recommend that men drink no more than 3-4 units per day, or 2-3 units per day for women.

Measuring your unit consumption can be difficult. As part of Alcohol Awareness Week anyone visiting the CHiP van will be given a free measure cup to find out how many units of alcohol you are consuming with each drink.

Other small things you can do to help you drink responsibly include:
• Keep the sensible drinking guidelines in mind
• Eat a meal before you start drinking, or enjoy some snacks while you drink. This helps to slow down the effects of alcohol on your body
• Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated – why not alternate alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks?
• Try a smaller glass
• Try a lower alcohol drink instead

By following these suggestions and using a unit measure guide, more Scots will be able to drink responsibly and make every day count without harming others – at work, home and play.

Chair of East Ayrshire Alcohol and Drugs Partnership, Eddie Fraser said: “Too many people in East Ayrshire are drinking too much too often which frequently results in considerable harm not only to themselves but others. Councillors from all political parties are backing East Ayrshire’s Alcohol Awareness Week. It gives people an ideal opportunity to find out more about sensible drinking levels and reassess their own drinking habits.”

Three public meetings aimed at setting up a Community Development Trust were held by East Ayrshire in June, July and August. Once formed . . . → Read More: Galston Community Development Trust steering group set up]]> The foundation of a Community Development Trust in Galston is a step closer with the set up of a steering group following a busy summer of community meetings.

Three public meetings aimed at setting up a Community Development Trust were held by East Ayrshire in June, July and August. Once formed the trust will work in partnership with residents and traders regenerate the town.

The turnout was enthusiastic, with more than one hundred people attending the meetings and nearly half of them expressing an interest in being involved
in a community trust. These individuals, all residents of Galston, elected a steering group to undertake the preparatory work required to set up the Trust.

The first meeting of the Steering Group was held on 21 September. At this meeting the first task tackled was to develop the aims and objectives of the future Trust. Through time the group will work in partnership with Council staff to keep the community involved in the Trust and expand its membership.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, East Ayrshire Council Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration said: “Regeneration is about much more than simply restoring old buildings and improving landscape, it’s very much about people and how they feel about their environment. Regeneration seeks to enhance the built environment to make our towns good places to live and work and without the input of those who live in Galston any change would be superficial. Local involvement through the set up of a Community Trust empowers people to have a say in the future of Galston and we’re delighted that so many people have shown an interest in and commitment to their town. Working together with government funding, council expertise and local enthusiasm, we’re sure the future is bright for regeneration in this community.”

Local members for Galston backed Councillor Buchanan’s sentiments: “Following a summer of lively discussion it is great to see the steering group coming together. We’re sure that the enthusiasm of local people working with East Ayrshire Council will help drive the regeneration of Galston for the benefit of everyone in the town now and for many years to come.”

Future meetings of the Steering Group will be held fortnightly and are open for any member of the public to attend. Meetings are already scheduled for 10^th and 24^th October and 7^th and 21^st of November at 7.00pm. For further details please contact Sylvia Allen, East Ayrshire Council, Project Officer. Tel :01563 578168.

Chris was one of fifty skiers from throughout the country who were battling it out for the overall British men’s title. He put on an extremely impressive display with a super-technical run which . . . → Read More: Its SNO-joke – Chris is crowned British Champion]]> Talented athlete Chris Wadsworth is proudly heading back from the British Indoor Ski Championships at SNO!zone, Castleford with a gold medal.

Chris was one of fifty skiers from throughout the country who were battling it out for the overall British men’s title. He put on an extremely impressive display with a super-technical run which included, for those in the know, a hardway 270-on to the down rail and a gap 270-on to the flat down rail and a switch-on switch-up onto the bottom rail. Chris’s run also included a 630-off the flat box and an impressive gap 450-on to 270-off on the flat down box. All of which secured him the title of Trespass Job Master!

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “I am absolutely delighted for Chris – his achievements are very technical but I am reliably told he did incredibly well and his gold medal speaks volumes! Chris is supported by East Ayrshire’s Talented Athlete Support Programme (TASP) and receives assistance through the Developing Potential programme. Earlier this year he was awarded £200 to support his development in this sport and his East Ayrshire 2014 TASP Card provides him with membership of the Galleon Centre and free registration to East Ayrshire Sports Physio clinic. Chris is a real inspiration to talented athletes throughout East Ayrshire.”

For full results from the British Indoor Championships check out:
www.britishsnowtour.com/championships/indoor-championships/results

For further information on the Talented Athlete Support Programme check out: www.eac.eu/tasp2014 and for any other information please contact Adam Strain, Youth Sports Development Officer on 01563 576737.

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The Academy is the only school in Scotland to have nurtured two Nobel Prize winners – Lord John Boyd Orr and Sir Alexander Fleming. The conference celebrated this unique achievement and . . . → Read More: From Kilmarnock Academy to Nobel Prizes]]> Kilmarnock Academy celebrated two of its most noted former pupils last
week at a one-day conference entitled “Global Citizens, Local Roots”.

The Academy is the only school in Scotland to have nurtured two Nobel
Prize winners – Lord John Boyd Orr and Sir Alexander Fleming. The conference
celebrated this unique achievement and re-assessed the lives of both men, as
well as looking at the role of the school itself in producing a steady stream
of notable scientists. Speakers included Professor Hugh Pennington, Emeritus
Professor of Bacteriology at the University of Aberdeen and Kevin Brown,
Curator of the Alexander Fleming Laboratory Museum in London.

The event was part of Glasgow Caledonian’s outreach programme,
connecting the university with local communities. It was organised in
conjunction with the university, the Ayrshire Federation of Historical
Societies, and with the co-operation of East Ayrshire Council. It was
financially supported by the Wellcome Trust through the Centre for the Social
History of Health and Healthcare, Glasgow.

Provost Stephanie Young, who attended the conference, said: “The event was a
wonderful way to celebrate these two influential men who passed through
Kilmarnock Academy in their formative years. It was fascinating to hear the speakers
discuss topics such as Scottish education at the turn of the 19^thcentury as well as the lives of Boyd Orr and Fleming who went on from
Kilmarnock Academy to make such an impact across the world.”

Photo caption: Left to right – Robert Pyper, Bryan Paterson,
Professor John Stewart, Elaine McFarland, Kevin Brown, Provost Stephanie
Young,  Sir Hugh Pennington, Catriona  MacDonald, Dr Neil Dixon

In order to try and change perceptions and reduce the stigma associated with . . . → Read More: Suicide Prevention Week]]> Suicide is not an easy topic for anyone to discuss. There are still taboos associated with suicide; many people feel they can’t talk freely about their feelings and it can be difficult to offer help to those who may need it.

In order to try and change perceptions and reduce the stigma associated with suicide, the Community Health Team (CHIP) of East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development section recently organised a number of awareness raising events as part of the national Choose Life campaign. Their aim is to change public attitudes to suicide and to raise awareness and understanding of the issue.

Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy. Serious talk about suicide reduces risk. The best way to identify the possibility of suicide is to ask directly. Open talk and genuine concern about someone’s thoughts of suicide are a source of relief and are key elements in preventing the immediate danger of suicide. It is important to remember that:

• on average, two people die by suicide every day in Scotland
• talking about suicide saves lives
• if you are worried about someone talk to them, it could save their life
• if you feel suicidal, don’t hide it, talk to someone you trust or phone a helpline
• suicide affects all ages, genders and cultures

If you are concerned about someone why not have a look at the web-site – http://www.suicide-prevention.org.uk/where you can find out more about how to help them.

Stigma also makes it difficult for people who have lost a loved one to suicide. It may prevent them from telling others the cause of death, and others don’t quite know how to react. Bereavement from suicide should be treated like any other loss, and help is on hand for those bereaved by suicide.

Touched by Suicide is a self help organisation which brings together individuals to meet the needs and break the isolation of those bereaved by the suicide of a close relative or friend. It encourages those who have been Touched by Suicide to meet and receive support from others who are in the same situation. A network of group meetings takes place which offer information relating to practical issues and problems. The main aim is to provide a safe confidential environment in which bereaved people can share their experiences and feelings so giving and gaining support from each other. More information about where meetings take place can be found by contacting group via the methods detailed below.

Contact details for Touched by Suicide -
Confidential telephone helpline
01294 229087
07768188499
There may be an answering machine but please leave your name and number someone will get back to you.
E-mail: touchedbysuicidescotland@hotmail.co.uk

Samaritans is a listening service for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair including those that may lead to suicide. This service is available to everyone, and we hope that by exploring their feelings about their situation the caller will be able to see other options.

Samaritans are available 24 hours a day and can be reached by phone, email, face to face, text or letter.

Phone: 08457 909090
Email: jo@samaritans.org
Text: 07725909090
Write to: Chris, PO Box 9090, Stirling, FK8 2SA
Face to face: 45 Titchfield Street, Kilmarnock

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Around 35 pupils performed at the concert which delighted guests including Provost Stephanie Young. While in the area, the group also visited the Dick and Dean Castle Country Park as well as . . . → Read More: TWIN TOWN GUESTS GIVE ROUSING PERFORMANCE AT ST JO’S]]> A youth orchestra from one of East Ayrshire’s twin towns, Kulmbach in Germany, raised the roof at St Joseph’s Academy last week.

Around 35 pupils performed at the concert which delighted guests including Provost Stephanie Young. While in the area, the group also visited the Dick and Dean Castle Country Park as well as indulging in some retail therapy in Kilmarnock Town Centre before the concert began.

Provost Young said: “It was a real pleasure to be able to welcome the guests from our twin town and for them to be able to experience just some of what Kilmarnock has to offer. The youth orchestra’s performance was excellent and I hope they all enjoyed their visit and will return to see us again one day soon.”

Photo Caption: Provost Young meets members of the Kulmbach Youth Orchestra

The two communities created the walking festival and pupils from Nether Robertland Primary School had the honour of cutting the ribbon to open the event. They then got the festival off to a great . . . → Read More: Annick Valley Walking Festival Success]]> The beautiful countryside around Stewarton and Kilmaurs was the perfect setting for the first ever Annick Valley Walking Festival.

The two communities created the walking festival and pupils from Nether Robertland Primary School had the honour of cutting the ribbon to open the event. They then got the festival off to a great start with a two hour sponsored walk around Lainshaw Woods.

Stewarton Woodland Action Trust and the Countryside Rangers organised a variety of walks for the local community over the festival weekend covering key locations like Fisherman’s Path, The Jubillee Walk and Kennox House. Local resident Mr Jim Blades also hosted a very interesting walk focusing on the History of Stewarton.

During the festival weekend pupils from Kilmaurs Primary School helped launch the second Kilmaurs Walking Festival with Mrs Margaret McGhee, wife of Councillor John McGhee, by cutting the ribbon at the historical Jougs building. As the event also coincided with Doors Open Day the youngsters got the opportunity to see behind the scenes at the Jougs. The Jougs, or tollbooth, was formerly the Parish Council Chambers and jail and was also used as the Kilmaurs fire station in the 19th century – the fire engine is housed in one of the two prison cells of the old jail.

Weary feet got no rest at the end of the first day – a very successful Ceilidh was held at the Masonic hall in Kilmaurs with fantastic music from ‘The Wally Dugs’ and a enjoyable plate of pie and peas!

The next day saw an impressive turn out to for the first Geocaching Walk and a historical walk around Jock’s Thorn. While in the evening the Countryside Rangers welcomed nearly sixty people to search the village for bats and were lucky to capture some of the early dusk aerial acrobatics of pipistrelle bats in Morton Park. The last day of the festival delivered beautiful weather for the busiest day of walks taking in the Knockentiber cycle route, Chapeltoun Estate and the first History of Kilmaurs walk led by local resident Mrs Anne Quig. The Walking Festival Committee and Community Council members would like to express their thanks to local residents who allowed access to their properties which helped to make this walk so interesting.

Please look out for details of next year’s Walking Festivals in and around Ayrshire.

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The purpose of the Residents’ Survey is to gain an increased understanding of local priorities and views of residents on public service provision/satisfaction and provide a comparison with Surveys carried out . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire Community Planning Residents’ Survey 2011]]> East Ayrshire Community Planning Partners have engaged Lowland Market Research to conduct a Residents’ Survey, interviewing 2,000 residents, from September to November 2011.

The purpose of the Residents’ Survey is to gain an increased understanding of local priorities and views of residents on public service provision/satisfaction and provide a comparison with Surveys carried out in 2005 and 2008.

Lowland Market Research will pilot the questionnaire in New Farm Loch, Kilmarnock, week commencing 12 September 2011. The pilot will be carried out in approximately 10 to 12 households.

Thereafter, it is planned to roll out the survey across all communities week commencing 19 September 2011 for a further 7 weeks, ending early November 2011.

All the interviewers will be supplied with Council ID Badges – with photographs for the duration of the survey period.

Please do not hesitate to contact the Community Planning and Partnership Unit, East Ayrshire Council on 01563 576075, if you require any further information on the matter.

Set up in 1997 by past . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire triumphant in team bowling]]> East Ayrshire employees were celebrating as they carried off an important victory in the Inter Authority Bowling Competition. The defeat score 12-0 to East Ayrshire ended four years of humiliation at the hands of rivals South Lanarkshire Council who have won the trophy for the past four years.

Set up in 1997 by past Provost James Boyd, the competition between the two Councils is a fun tournament with Councillors and staff from all departments taking part. This year’s venue was Glaisnock Valley Bowling Club at Netherthird and was organised by East Ayrshire Council Officer Bernie Gribben.

Provost Stephanie Young was delighted to receive the trophy from a tearful Russell Cleary , Provost of South Lanarkshire. She paid tribute to the quality of the greens at Glaisnock “We had a fantastic day, with keen competition and a lot of fun. Our team played brilliantly and I was very proud to be on such fine home turf – the condition of the green was first class and we were made most welcome by Glaisnock Valley. The Dumfries Arms were very generous sponsors and it was a great pleasure to relieve South Lanarkshire of the magnificent trophy after a long four years!!”

StreetSport Icon, a partnership between East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development Services and Kilmarnock Football Club, is in its third year and seeks to find . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock FC give street footballers a chance to shine!]]> Kilmarnock Football Club’s StreetSport Icon competition saw nearly 1,000 ten to eighteen year olds competing for an amazing prize – a week’s professional football experience at the top flight club.

StreetSport Icon, a partnership between East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development Services and Kilmarnock Football Club, is in its third year and seeks to find a Street Footballer with the skill and ability to make it at the highest level. The competition for places this year was fiercer than ever! The fourteen eventual winners enjoyed a professional football experience including double training sessions taken by Paul McDonald and Alan Mahood, full training kit and lunch with Kilmarnock first team players. The Kilmarnock players also found time from their busy training schedule to play five-a-sides with the winners giving the boys some memories that they will never forget.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “StreetSport Icon is a fantastic competition which gives young people a real opportunity to take their football to a higher level. I would like to thank everyone who took part in the competition and offer congratulations to the fourteen winners namely – Ewan Farrell, Ross Thompson, Craig Rydon, Ethan Tasker, David Jamieson, Steven Easton, Arron Watters, Regan Ross, Jackson Sivewright, Connor Smith, Jordan Doolan, Callum McAughtrie, Ross Millar and Mark Easton.”

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 “It’s great to see Kilmarnock bustling”

“It’s fantastic that such a big event has come to Kilmarnock”

“I’ve been pleasantly surprised by Kilmarnock and I’ll be back”

“I’ve shopped today in Kilmarnock and I wouldn’t have come if it wasn’t for the Market”

 Just some of the comments from happy customers . . . → Read More: Global Market breaks records and boosts trade for Kilmarnock]]>  

 “It’s great to see Kilmarnock bustling”

“It’s fantastic that such a big event has come to Kilmarnock”

“I’ve been pleasantly surprised by Kilmarnock and I’ll be back”

“I’ve shopped today in Kilmarnock and I wouldn’t have come if it wasn’t for the Market”

 Just some of the comments from happy customers at Kilmarnock’s second ever Global Market.

 Held last week, the market featuring traders from all over the world was a fantastic success.  In a record breaking four days, 45,000 people attended, exceeding the numbers who came on its first visit in June. 

Jacqueline O’Donnell, TV chef and owner of The Sisters restaurants in Glasgow, led an entourage of chefs including some from Braehead Cook School, The Jefferson and other local restaurants. They met with Council Leader Douglas Reid and enjoyed a sample of the cuisine and exotic ingredients on offer.

Town Centre Manager, Fiona Nicolson was delighted with the visitor numbers, conducting some research of her own into the visitors. She says “I conducted market research over the four days of the market. Visitors came from all over Ayrshire, Glasgow and even from Germany and Spain!  On the Thursday and Friday 25% said they never or rarely shopped in the town centre and this rose to over 50% on Saturday. This is proof that the market is extremely effective in attracting new customers to our town centre and will encourage new people to visit again.   Indeed when asked if they would like the market to visit again 96% said “Yes”. “

Fiona’s remit, as part of the wider regeneration plan for Kilmarnock is to boost footfall and encourage people to “shop local”.  The markets are part of a strategy of events designed to draw visitors to the town centre as a venue to shop, eat, drink and enjoy.

She says:”This is all about bringing increased footfall to our town centre. The market is undoubtedly a massive attraction. It was great to see some of our town centre businesses being really proactive in taking advantage of the huge upturn in numbers.  Even although not every business benefitted directly at the time, my research shows that many of the people who hadn’t previously visited the town intend to return to shop again.”

Costa Coffee reported an increase in sales well beyond the excellent figures they reported in June, and many other traders reported similar experiences. The market traders themselves were very happy with the reception they received in the town, including the food and accommodation on offer from local businesses.

Local newsagent Marco Sinforiani added: “Even though all independent traders have to make a living, it’s not about if my sales are up or down because I think an event of this profile is fantastic for Kilmarnock. Getting this volume of people into our town centre is just brilliant, we have not seen that sort of crowd since I was at primary school!!

This time around I made up promotional flyers and handed them out to the crowds and this has really helped with my sales being considerably up over the 4 day period.”

John Gall of Browning’s the Bakers said: “After the last market I saw the increase in footfall as a great opportunity. I put on a range of special offers and also had staff in Browning’s T-shirts out offering free samples of our famous Killie Pies and distributing promotional flyers. We also opened our King Street shop on Sunday. I’m delighted with effects of global market and we’ve had an increase in sales of between 10 & 15%”

All in all the market has been a positive for the town. Councillor Jim Buchanan, spokesperson for Community Regeneration said: “It’s very exciting to see the town so busy, with all the spin off benefits which the market activity brings. All the work we’re doing in the town from improving landscaping, lighting and walkways, to  refurbishing our grand old buildings and holding events like the Global Market are geared towards improving Kilmarnock as a place to work, trade, shop and live. This Global Market this week has been another exciting step in our overall progress as a town to be proud of.”

East Ayrshire Council has joined forces with its neighbours to help spread the word on how local people can help to prevent suicide. 

 To mark National Suicide Prevention Week from 5 to 9 September, North, East and South Ayrshire Councils have embarked on an awareness-raising campaign to promote the message: Choose Life. Don’t . . . → Read More: National Suicide Prevention Week 2011]]>

East Ayrshire Council has joined forces with its neighbours to help spread the word on how local people can help to prevent suicide. 

 To mark National Suicide Prevention Week from 5 to 9 September, North, East and South Ayrshire Councils have embarked on an awareness-raising campaign to promote the message: Choose Life. Don’t hide it – Talk about it.

Representatives from all three authorities attended the launch of a high-profile campaign which kicked off at Kilmarnock Football Club today (Monday, 29 August).

Double-decker busses bearing adverts which encourage people to ‘ask and listen’ were unveiled by elected members and representatives from social work and health at Rugby Park.

 These buses will travel throughout Ayrshire in a bid to raise awareness of the issue amongst commuters and other motorists. Thousands of pocket cards and leaflets giving simple tips on how to pick up on the signs of suicide and how to intervene will also be distributed throughout Ayrshire at places such as libraries, doctor’s surgeries and public offices.

 Suicide Prevention Week is run by NHS Scotland with the support of Scottish local authorities part of the Choose Life campaign – a national initiative to reduce the stigma and taboo associated with suicide.

Last year, 46 people committed suicide in Ayrshire.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, East Ayrshire Council’s Spokesperson for Community Health and Wellbeing, said: “Across Ayrshire there have been huge efforts to provide training and raise awareness of the signs that someone is at risk of suicide and give people around them the skills and confidence to intervene.

 “Since 2004, more than 1,000 people from workplaces, voluntary organisations and local communities have attended training programmes in Ayrshire but it is important that we continue this work to raise awareness that just asking the question could help to save a life.”

Head of Roads and Transportation John Bryson is appealing for help from the public in solving this serious crime. “We’ve lost over . . . → Read More: Roads disruption as thieves steal gully covers]]>  East Ayrshire Council Roads and Transportation department are working closely with the Police as traffic has been disrupted by the theft of over 60 gully covers throughout the area.

Head of Roads and Transportation John Bryson is appealing for help from the public in solving this serious crime. “We’ve lost over 60 gully covers recently. Aside from the risks and inconvenience this causes to roadusers, replacing them will take considerable time and expense. We have been working closely with the police to find the culprits and would appeal to the public to report any suspicious activity on the roads.

“Other roads authorities have reported a similar spate of thefts so we are taking this matter very seriously. In the meantime the affected gullies have been covered with cones but we’d ask the public to remain vigilant and bear with us until we have replacement covers in place.”

The affected roads are at Treeswoodhead Road, Kilmarnock;  Barony Road, Auchinleck and the New Cumnock To Dalmellington Road

Kilmarnock’s Town Centre is set to buzz again this week with the return of the Global Market which drew over 40,000 shoppers on its first visit to the town earlier this year.

 Starting at 9.00 am on Thursday 1st September and running until 4.00pm on Sunday 4th, the Market provides a . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock set to buzz as Global Market returns]]>  

Kilmarnock’s Town Centre is set to buzz again this week with the return of the Global Market which drew over 40,000 shoppers on its first visit to the town earlier this year.

 Starting at 9.00 am on Thursday 1^st September and running until 4.00pm on Sunday 4^th, the Market provides a spectacular range of foods and crafts from all over the world. 

 The unique scale and quality of the market has attracted TV chef Jacqueline O’Donnell to visit with an entourage of local chefs. And, building on the success of the last event, which increased trade for local businesses too, local shops, craftspeople and members of the Ayrshire Food Network will be joining in with their own stalls.

 Organiser Fiona Nicolson, Kilmarnock’s Town Centre Manager says: “The excitement in the town is building, we had a phenomenal response to the last Global Market and this one promises to be bigger and better, with local traders geared up to take advantage of all the opportunities it presents.

 “The Market will again include flowers and plants from Holland, Spanish paella, South African crocodile and wild boar, Italian olives and breads, reindeer hides from Finland and Greek and German delicatessens, but this time we’ll also have a big range of new stalls.

 “Among the new stalls joining are Breton crepes, fair trade coffee beans and freshly baked baguettes. Two enterprising businesses from Bank Street are also maximising the opportunity by taking a stall and once again four from the Ayrshire Food Network will sell their home grown Ayrshire produce.

 “Word has spread about the market and we’re delighted to be hosting a tour of around 15 chefs led by STV’s Jacqueline O’Donnell who will be there on Thursday around midday to see the range of foods on offer. They’ll include those from Braehead Cook School and local restaurants including The Jefferson, Merchants and One Thirty.”

 The Global Market is on of a number of events planned by Fiona to encourage people to use Kilmarnock Town Centre. Last June’s Global Market brought benefits to the local economy. Coffee shops, cafes and restaurants enjoyed a boost, with many of the stallholders staying in local hotels and bed and breakfasts during the four day event.

 The Global Market runs from 9.00am – 6.00pm Thursday to Sat and 10.00am – 4.00pm on Sunday.

Emma, 6, of Muirkirk Primary School, entered a prize draw run by the Council’s Community Recreation team at Muirkirk Games Hall to win a Funtastic Party.

A great time was had . . . → Read More: Emma’s a fantastic winner!]]> Young Emma Hope recently enjoyed a fab party for herself and all her friends – and it didn’t cost her parents a penny.

Emma, 6, of Muirkirk Primary School, entered a prize draw run by the Council’s Community Recreation team at Muirkirk Games Hall to win a Funtastic Party.

A great time was had by all – and Emma certainly had a fun-packed day to remember.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Community Health and Wellbeing, said: “The free prize draw was a great idea – and what a wonderful prize for a child to win. I’m delighted Emma and her friends enjoyed their party, thanks to our hardworking staff at Muirkirk Games Hall”.

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For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

They are looking to recruit 2,000 16 to 18 year olds who are members of local sports clubs to . . . → Read More: Wanted – 2,000 dedicated young games volunteers]]> With just one year to go until the start of the London 2012 Games, the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) recently announced details of the Young Games Maker programme.

They are looking to recruit 2,000 16 to 18 year olds who are members of local sports clubs to take up volunteer roles which are vital to the success of the Games.

Recognised organisations such as Get Set Network schools and colleges, youth or sports clubs, and community and volunteering groups are encouraged to put forward over 250 teams of volunteers to help fill the roles and make the Games happen.

Young Games Makers will be needed in the technology department and across a number of sports, from aquatics and athletics, to wheelchair tennis and weightlifting.

If you – or someone you know – might be interested in this exciting, once in a lifetime opportunity, see www.london2012.com/young-games-maker for more information.

To find out more about local sports clubs, contact East Ayrshire Council Leisure Development on 01563 573571 or log onto www.eac.eu/sport

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 For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

 The pressure was on the Kilmarnock based branch of HEROtsc to find suitable candidates to find new employees urgently and they needed help to . . . → Read More: Skills Development and Employability Service comes to the rescue]]> When customer management company HEROtsc  suddenly needed one hundred new employees to fulfil a new contract, they turned to East Ayrshire Council’s Skills Development and Employability Service with great success.

 The pressure was on the Kilmarnock based branch of HEROtsc to find suitable candidates to find new employees urgently and they needed help to advertise, interview and recruit them as quickly as possible.

 For the Skills Development and Employability team at East Ayrshire the challenge was on.   Sarah Parker, Assistant Skills Development & Employability Manager explains: “Suddenly, at very short notice we were asked to find, interview and recruit a large number of people. We’re used to sourcing, recruiting and training people, assisting local companies of all sizes to find employment solutions, but we’d never had to do anything so quickly and on this scale before.

 “Our first move was to look through our files of those who were already registered with our service and identify suitable candidates. Next we used our network of contacts throughout East Ayrshire to spread the word and finally we alerted the press that we would be holding a recruitment day at Grange Academy Campus.”

 On the day the turnout was excellent, with nearly 300 people turning up for interview. 115 passed the screening (first stage of selection process) and were invited to attend the 2^nd stage of selection at the HEROtsc assessment centre with the employer over the next few weeks.

Of those attending the first round at the assessment centre, 33 people were successful and started employment on 1 August. Further assessments and recruitment is ongoing.

The Skills Development & Employability Service have been working closely with HEROtsc to ensure that all those attending the assessment centre were given interview preparation and support to return to work. 

HEROtsc  were so delighted with the organisation of the recruitment day that they plan to run similar days at their nine other centres using the East Ayrshire Council example as a model of best practice for mass recruitment.

Their spokesman said of the recruitment drive: “It was an absolutely outstanding result. The whole day far exceeded our expectations and has well and truly become a “blue print” for future events. We would like to take this opportunity to say a massive thanks to each and every one in the Skills Development and Employability Service, for making this event a resounding success and very much look forward to working with you in the future.”

Councillor Jim Buchanan spokesperson for delivering Community Regeneration said: “Local employers are increasingly seeing the benefits of using our Skills Development and Employability Service to assist with work placements, recruitment and ongoing training. Our tailored approach means we can help with all sorts of aspects of employment. This event was pulled together in a remarkably short time and with great success for all concerned, showing just what East Ayrshire  Council can do to help locally based companies expand  and upskill their workforces  – ultimately this  benefits  everyone in the community.”

Cumnock’s historic square will be buzzing this weekend as fun, mischief, strong men and pipers take over with an action packed series of events and parades

On Saturday 20th August Mischief La-Bas, Scotland’s leading street theatre company, will stage their “Festival of Fudge”, a colourful mixture of mayhem and daftness . . . → Read More: Cumnock Square sets the scene for a busy weekend]]>

Festival of Fudge

Cumnock’s historic square will be buzzing this weekend as fun, mischief, strong men and pipers take over with an action packed series of events and parades

On Saturday 20th August Mischief La-Bas, Scotland’s leading street theatre company, will stage their “Festival of Fudge”, a colourful mixture of mayhem and daftness to delight audiences of any age. The free event, supported by Creative Scotland and organised by Town Centre Manager Kathryn Howell, will run from 1pm until 3pm in Cumnock’s historic square. The company are returning to the town, having enjoyed a great reception last year when their “Market of Optimism” caused a sensation.

On the evening of the 20th, more traditional entertainment in the form of the Cumnock Highland Games Tattoo which starts with a Tattoo Parade leaving from the Square at 6.30pm. The show, starting at 7.00pm at Broomfield Park, costs between £3 and £5. It opens the Cumnock Highland Games. The performers include pipe bands, live music from Clann an Drumm, fire dancers and a spectacular fireworks display.

On Sunday 21st August the Highland Games will run from 12.30pm when the Chieftan’s Parade leaves the Square, to 5.30pm in Broomfield Park. Admission at £5 includes all the best of highland dancing, pipe bands and the popular ‘Heavies’ competition. A wide variety of stalls and activities will be at the Games, including a Medieval Village, beer tent and funfair rides.

Jim Buchanan, East Ayrshire spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration said: “ We’re as part of the extensive regeneration of Cumnock Town Centre we’ve invested a lot in improvements to the Square and surrounding areas. Much of the work is ongoing. But regeneration is not only about buildings, it’s about people too. Events like this which bring the community together to enjoy their architectural heritage promote respect and loyalty within the town. We’re all looking forward to an exciting weekend and proud that the Square is being used as a backdrop to so much of the activity.”

To tackle the problem of dog fouling the Corporate Enforcement Unit was out in force during National Poop Scoop Week patrolling our main streets and . . . → Read More: Fines for poop not scooped]]> Not picking up after your dog is a criminal offence – it has a negative impact on our streets and parks and is not tolerated in East Ayrshire.

To tackle the problem of dog fouling the Corporate Enforcement Unit was out in force during National Poop Scoop Week patrolling our main streets and parks fining anyone caught not clearing up after their dogs.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “Our officers patrolled the areas where we receive the greatest number of complaints about dog fouling. In total eight people were caught not picking up after their dogs and received a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN). The FPN’s were served in Dalmellington, Drongan, Patna, Darvel and Kilmarnock’s Kay and Howard Parks. This is a clear signal that dog fouling will not be tolerated.

“Together we can tackle the problem of dog fouling – if you are aware of a neighbour who regularly walks their dog and doesn’t pick up after it lift the phone to the Corporate Enforcement Unit. By providing them with details of what times of day the dog is walked and where it is walked we can catch the owner in the act and issue a fine.”

Please contact the Corporate Enforcement Unit on 01563 554022.

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The park is a firm favourite with local families thanks to the fantastic number of activities on offer. The Rangers Service offers a fun filled programme of events . . . → Read More: Dean Castle Country Park is top with mums]]> Mum’s the word when it comes to Dean Castle Country Park – the park has just been voted best attraction in South West Scotland by netmums.com.

The park is a firm favourite with local families thanks to the fantastic number of activities on offer. The Rangers Service offers a fun filled programme of events throughout the year that appeals to young and old alike; the urban farm lets youngsters get up close to a variety of animals including pigs, sheep and goats; there are beautiful walks; a tearoom offering tasty treats all year round and don’t forget about the medieval castle which provides an exciting interactive attraction for the whole family.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration said: “It is absolutely no surprise to me that Dean Castle Country Park has been voted top by mums. The park provides a wonderful day out for families and there is something on offer for everyone. The Countryside Services team are incredibly proactive and are always looking at new ways of attracting people to the park. All their hard work is obviously working with hundreds of thousands of visitors flooding to the park every year!”

Netmums was founded in 2000 and is the UK’s fastest growing online parenting organisation with over a million members and 4 million visitors a month. It is a family of local sites that cover the UK, each site offering local information to parents on everything from what’s on, where to find playgroups, how to eat healthily and where to meet other mothers.

www.deancastle.com/

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East Ayrshire Council’s Play and Activity Motivator (Early Years) has been running a fun filled summer programme for children between the ages of 0-5 years and on Friday 29 July, 25 children and 11 adults took part in music . . . → Read More: Little ones are highly motivated]]> Little ones were highly motivated after a fun filled summer session at Onthank Primary recently.

East Ayrshire Council’s Play and Activity Motivator (Early Years) has been running a fun filled summer programme for children between the ages of 0-5 years and on Friday 29 July, 25 children and 11 adults took part in music and movement activities. Young and old alike had a great time playing with a parachute, singing songs, story time and jamming together on musical instruments.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “Through play children develop a sense of wellbeing and develop emotional responses. It also encourages risk taking, problem solving, sharing, communication and creativity making play a really important element in children’s lives. Well done to the EA Positive Play Team, I was delighted to participate in the session and I can tell you that everyone, including the parents, had a fantastic time.”

The Play & Activity Motivator (Early Years) provides term-time sessions at community based parent and toddler groups, parent play training sessions and seasonal play related activity sessions. The Play & Activity Motivator (Early Years) is one element of the EA Positive Play project and its main aim is to promote the importance of physical activity and play to young children and their parents or carers.

If you would like further information regarding any of the above please contact Martin McMullen on 01563 576987 or check the website at www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/play.

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Families from throughout East Ayrshire and across central Scotland visited Kay Park and enjoyed the fun-filled day of . . . → Read More: Families celebrate the child’s right to play]]> Kay Park was definitely the place to be on Wednesday 3 August as 9,000 people descended on the park for this year’s, very warm and sunny, Playday making it one of the biggest events in Scotland!

Families from throughout East Ayrshire and across central Scotland visited Kay Park and enjoyed the fun-filled day of activities including canoeing, mud slides, gunge pools, crate building, face painting, inflatable slides and the inflatable laser quest.

National Playday highlights the importance of children and young people getting the opportunity to get out to play and of course the positive impact that this has on the whole community…after all we all need some time to play and this was demonstrated on Wednesday by the range of age groups, young and old alike, having a great time playing together.

Young reporters from the Recreation Partnership Service MEND initiative played a massive part by capturing the views of the community with cameras and comments from children and their families about what they thought of Playday and the importance of play. Everyone questioned really enjoyed the day and recognised the importance of playing outside to keep healthy, get exercise and fresh air. Comments about how children enjoyed Playday ranged from “fab”, “love it”, “like 100%”, “enjoyed it billions”, “better than sitting in the house” and “thanks for a great day”.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing was there on the day and said: “It was a fantastic day for everyone who came along thanks to the team work of the entire Leisure Services Section. Children got to try new activities for the first time such as canoeing, laser quest, having fun in the hay and best of all, the mud slide. Play is essential for children’s wellbeing both mentally and physically and Playday certainly highlighted how good it is to be outside having fun as well as the fantastic resources we have nurtured in our local parks and open spaces.”

This year’s Playday was a whole community partnership approach with local businesses, organisations and charities providing information and activities on the day including Early Education and Childcare Services, Breastfeeding Network, CARIS, Howard Centre Craft Zone, Rainbow and Puddles Outdoor Nursery, EAC Tenants and Residents Federation, Energy Saving Scotland and Alzheimer Scotland. But the event would not have been possible without the support of East Ayrshire Council’s Outdoor Amenities and Community Recreation Services as well as East Ayrshire Community Play Forum and its member groups who played a role in planning and delivering the event alongside EA Positive Play, and this will have lasting benefits for each of the groups.

Play Forum Development Worker Eddie O’Connor said: “The annual Playday event is an opportunity for community and voluntary groups such as East Ayrshire Scouts, Out of School Care organisations, Yipworld.com, childminders to come together, participate in activities, share skills and expertise and provide information that will help support communities.”

If you would like further information or would like your organisation to be involved in future Playday events or the Community Play Forum, please contact Rose Anson, Play and Recreation Officer on 01563 576703.

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Running throughout the summer holidays Barnardo’s Scotland WEE6 Project is providing fun and exciting activities to young people aged 11 – 18 years living in the North West Area . . . → Read More: WEE6 Project Summer Fun]]> Cheerleading, Outdoor Sports, American Football, Beach Art, Swimming and Dance Workshops are only some of the activities on offer this summer from the WEE6 Project.

Running throughout the summer holidays Barnardo’s Scotland WEE6 Project is providing fun and exciting activities to young people aged 11 – 18 years living in the North West Area of Kilmarnock. The activities encourage young people to learn new skills, build confidence and develop skills which will help them in education, training or employment.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing joined the young people for Den Building at Dean Castle Country Park. She said: “I was delighted to join our partners from within the Barnardo’s Scotland team at Dean Park and work with the young people. The WEE6 Project summer programme has been extremely well attended during the summer months and our young people have had the opportunity to learn new skills but importantly have embraced new experiences which has had a positive effect on their overall confidence.”

Mary Glasgow, assistant director for Barnardo’s Scotland services in Ayrshire, said: “The WEE6 Project has been a great success. It’s enabled young people in the area to learn new skills and meet other young people in their local community. We hope they will continue to be involved in similar activities and maintain the friendships long after the summer months have gone.”

East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Services has worked closely with all local agencies providing activities to young people this summer– namely the Council’s Active Schools team, Kilmarnock Football Club, Northwest Youth Project, Mission Rescue, Job Centre Plus and Barnardo’s Scotland – providing support and funding to worthy projects. The team also produced a bE Active guide which includes all the activities on offer within the North West Area.

For further information and details check out http:// www.eac.eu/beactive

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The golden ticket allows Mr Dickson and four other family members discounted access to all the exciting summer activities on offer at our local leisure facilities. Mr Dickson attended a Leisure Services summer information session at the beginning . . . → Read More: Summer savings is just the ticket]]> Mr Dickson from Muirkirk was the lucky winner of a Summer Savings ticket from Leisure Services.

The golden ticket allows Mr Dickson and four other family members discounted access to all the exciting summer activities on offer at our local leisure facilities. Mr Dickson attended a Leisure Services summer information session at the beginning of summer and his name was placed into a prize draw.

Summer is now coming to an end but watch out for new activity programmes due out at the end of August which will be available from your local games hall/sports centre or log on to http:// www.eac.eu/beactive.

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The Council’s main aim this summer was to make healthy and active choices the easy choice for local youngsters. Not only did Leisure Services have a full programme of events running throughout the holidays . . . → Read More: bE Active this Summer]]> Kids from North West Kilmarnock had no time to get bored this summer thanks to Leisure Services’ bE Active guide.

The Council’s main aim this summer was to make healthy and active choices the easy choice for local youngsters. Not only did Leisure Services have a full programme of events running throughout the holidays but they also worked with all local agencies providing activities to young people – namely the Council’s Active Schools team, Kilmarnock Football Club, Northwest Youth Project, Mission Rescue, Job Centre Plus and Barnardo’s – providing support and funding to worthy projects. The team also produced a bE Active guide which includes all the activities on offer within the North West Area.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing, visited an Airzone session at the Hunter Centre. She said: “This summer’s bE Active guide provides a comprehensive choice of high quality and fun activities for children and young people, teenagers and families. There really has been something for everyone – Early Years Activity Motivation, MAX clubs, Commonwealth Sports Coaching, Zumba, Freshers Weeks for new first years and the CHIP Van has been out and about living the healthiest life possible.

“Training and employment opportunities have also featured heavily during the summer months with Job Centre Plus provide support and advice and our own Leisure Development team have been offered Certified Sports Leaders training. Ten people aged from 14 years to over 40 years have passed the course and have been volunteering throughout the summer at a range of activities including Street Sport Icon coaching, Fit 4 Teens each Friday night and the MAX club at the Hunter Fitness Suite. With all this on offer who could possibly get bored?!”

The summer programme ends on Sunday 14 August so there is still plenty of time to join in the fun: www.eac.eu/beactive

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In partnership with East Ayrshire Council, the following package is available:

• 30% discount for Grange Leisure Centre and St Joseph’s Leisure Centre 3G pitches • 30% . . . → Read More: Support for Sport]]> If you run a sports club and would like amazing discounts, advice, support, training and free advertising – then think about affiliating to East Ayrshire Sports Council.

In partnership with East Ayrshire Council, the following package is available:

• 30% discount for Grange Leisure Centre and St Joseph’s Leisure Centre 3G pitches
• 30% discount to access Leisure Services games halls/sports centres
• free promotion of club activities in sports club directory
• coach education programme and continuous professional development opportunities
• grant aid funding
• advice on policies and procedures including child protection guidelines and development plans

Cost for the package is £25 for clubs and £10 for associations per year. For an affiliation form for 2011/12, please call 01563 576718 or download one from www.eac.eu/sportscouncil

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Local lad, Jai was crowned champion of Britain’s Got Talent, in front of 12.5million viewers, following a string of stunning performances. His incredible rendition of To Where You Are by Josh Groban won him . . . → Read More: A night with Jai McDowall and friends]]> Singing sensation and Britain’s Got Talent champion Jai McDowall will be performing at the Grand Hall on Saturday 1 October.

Local lad, Jai was crowned champion of Britain’s Got Talent, in front of 12.5million viewers, following a string of stunning performances. His incredible rendition of To Where You Are by Josh Groban won him an army of fans and his semi final performance was truly outstanding.

He will be performing at the Grand Hall on Saturday 1 October with friends from Loudoun Musical Society and Ayr singing sensation Nicola Cassells. She has been described as Scotland’s answer to Katherine Jenkins and is the lucky charm of the Glasgow Rocks basketball giants.

Tickets for the show are £15 or £17.50 for limited premium seats. Tickets are on sale from Thursday 28 July from the Palace Theatre Box Office on 01563 554900 or visit www.ticketweb.co.uk

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As part of our charter for the commonwealth games in Glasgow 2014, the Council and the Sports Council are offering athletes residing . . . → Read More: Athletes of the future]]> East Ayrshire has an abundance of promising athletes who have the potential to be the sporting heroes of tomorrow – and East Ayrshire Council is ready to help them realise their dreams.

As part of our charter for the commonwealth games in Glasgow 2014, the Council and the Sports Council are offering athletes residing within the authority, a package of support to help them reach their full potential within their chosen sport.

This programme offers financial and practical support to athletes and has already provided support to several sportspeople from East Ayrshire including the three athletes who represented Scotland at the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games. The most recent recipients were Natalie Nicol from Sakai Karate Club, Joshua Rutnagur from Glasgow Hutcheson Aloysius Rugby Club and Fiona Wilson from Riccarton and Galleon Bowling Club who were awarded Developing Potential status as part of this programme and received £200, a free one year’s gym pass to EA Leisure facilities and free registration to EA Sport Physio Clinic.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “We know that there is a wealth of talented athletes training every day in East Ayrshire and it is important that they receive the support that they need and deserve. One day they will become a real form of inspiration for many living in the authority and beyond!”

Individuals are still able to apply to one of East Ayrshire’s two strands of Athlete Support:
Developing Potential – Athletes competing in any Sports recognised by the Scottish Sports Council (Sportscotland) are eligible to apply.

Podium Potential – Athletes competing in any Sport to be included in the London 2012 Olympic Games or Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games are eligible to apply.

For more detailed guidance and information log onto www.eac.eu/tasp2014 or contact Adam Strain, Youth Sports Development Officer, on 01563 576737 or email adam.strain@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

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The new venue proved a great success, managing to recapture the atmosphere of the traditional agricultural show remembered by many. The serious business of judging cattle, sheep, horses and ponies was followed . . . → Read More: Fenwick show was just moo’verlous]]> In spite of heavy overnight rain, exhibitors and spectators at Fenwick Show enjoyed a lovely sunny day at Aikenhead Farm on Saturday.

The new venue proved a great success, managing to recapture the atmosphere of the traditional agricultural show remembered by many. The serious business of judging cattle, sheep, horses and ponies was followed by presentation of the trophies by Provost Stephanie Young who also judged the mounted fancy dress class.

Provost Young said: “Everyone who attended the show had a fantastic day. The show was extremely well organised by Martha Speirs, and the organising committee, and it went without a hitch. The whole community showed fantastic commitment to the show – from the young people and their wonderful costumes to the farmers showing their prize animals. The sun and the community spirit really shone through.”

The Climbing Wall, pony rides, bouncy castle, archery and Owl Magic, along with the various stalls in the exhibition tent, were very popular with all ages. The Industrial Section and Dog Show were also very well-supported. Adults and children had great fun at the tug o’ war and various races, all of which were highly entertaining for the spectators, several of whom commented on the family atmosphere of the Show.

Fenwick Farmers’ Society would like to thank all those who helped and contributed to the success of the Show and look forward to continued support in future years.

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Local families were challenged to try six things during the week to improve their general health. They had to:

• walk for an extra 20 minutes every day • eat at least one . . . → Read More: MEND had everyone moving]]> MEND Move it Week got everyone on their feet and trying something new in a bid to get fitter and healthier.

Local families were challenged to try six things during the week to improve their general health. They had to:

• walk for an extra 20 minutes every day
• eat at least one serving of fruit or veg with every meal and for snacks
• try an exciting new activity such as street dance, trampolining, circus skills or martial arts
• start the day with a healthy and filling breakfast
• drink only one small cup or carton of fruit juice each day – it contains lots of sugar so it best to keep this to a minimum
• drink between 6 and 8 cups of water each day

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “It is incredible that making six small changes to your lifestyle can make huge improvements to your overall health. MEND Move It Week was a fantastic opportunity to encourage families to take part in a very achievable challenge. The MEND Move It family fun day was also great fun and encouraged young and old alike to exercise for fun. We all thoroughly enjoyed the Zumba class which many of us were trying for the first time – and I can tell you I am completely hooked!”

MEND parent, Melanie said: “The kids really enjoyed the week. They have tried a range of different activities which they would not have done had they not been at the Move It Week. It has been an excellent start to the summer.”

If you think your child is above a healthy weight and you’d like to find out more about MEND, contact Lesley Fowler on 01563 576684or email lesley.fowler@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

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MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do it!) runs fun-filled programmes for local families with children who are above a healthy weight for their age and height, to help them . . . → Read More: Kids celebrate success]]> A free healthy lifestyle club running in Kilmarnock celebrated the success of its latest group of graduates at a special ceremony at Shortlees Community Centre recently.

MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do it!) runs fun-filled programmes for local families with children who are above a healthy weight for their age and height, to help them become healthier and more active.

At the graduation event, five local families took part in a special ceremony to celebrate their achievements in becoming fitter and healthier. Children received certificates to recognise their progress on the 10-week course.

Families taking part in the programme in Kilmarnock reported that their children had more energy and had grown in self confidence. Yvonne, a local parent who attended the East Ayrshire MEND programme with her daughter said: “MEND has been a great experience for me and my kids. We have picked up loads of tips and the kids are more aware of MEND friendly foods. My daughter’s confidence has definitely grown and she is much better in group situations. It has been great that her brother has been able to join in too.”

Lesley Fowler, Leisure Development’s, Recreation Partnership Officer (Target Groups) said: “It’s has been brilliant to see the children become healthier and fitter over the last 10 weeks and in particular to watch their self esteem and confidence grow. MEND teaches families how they can incorporate healthy habits into their daily lives so they can stay healthy for life”.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health & Wellbeing was inspired by the children and their families. She added: “I always enjoy meeting with the families and hearing their stories and achievements and I am always amazed by the positive changes that have taken place – not just the intended physical health changes that are measured, but also the improvements in confidence, self esteem and overall lifestyle which occur over the ten week period.”

If you think your child is above a healthy weight and you would like to register your family for the next MEND programme please contact Lesley Fowler, Recreation Partnership Officer on 01563 576684 or Lesley.fowler@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.

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The new Netherthird Football Pavilion will provide modern changing facilities for two teams plus a referee room and will compliment the facilities already on offer.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing, was . . . → Read More: New football pavilion opens in Netherthird]]> Fantastic new football facilities are now available in Netherthird thanks to investment from East Ayrshire Council.

The new Netherthird Football Pavilion will provide modern changing facilities for two teams plus a referee room and will compliment the facilities already on offer.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing, was joined by Councillor Douglas Reid and Councillor William Menzies to view the new facility. She said: “There are two eleven aside pitches and a seven aside pitch available for community hire and the new pavilion will make a huge difference to all the teams who play in Netherthird. I am absolutely delighted that we have provided this fantastic facility for the community and I am sure that local teams will make the most of it.”

Teams can register for the new season by contacting 01563 554045 during office hours.

Take your summer to the MAX and try out our MAX Clubs. They provide the ideal place for children aged 5 – 12 to enjoy new sports, games and . . . → Read More: Plan your affordable family summer]]> East Ayrshire Council Leisure Services, along with their partners, have produced a summer programme full of exciting, affordable activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Take your summer to the MAX and try out our MAX Clubs. They provide the ideal place for children aged 5 – 12 to enjoy new sports, games and arts activities whilst making friends and having fun in a safe environment. The sessions are on offer Monday to Friday every week of the school holidays and last for a full morning or afternoon so parents and carers can enjoy a bit of relaxation whilst the kids are tiring themselves out! And at £3 for the 3 hour session – with a SHOUT or Summer Saver – it’s great value.

For pre-5s we have a range of creative activities including crafts, stories, songs and free play or move those hips and bring the whole family along to the Zumba for Families class. Information on local sports clubs, Active Schools and other partner activities are also listed within the bE Active guide to give you as much information as possible about what’s on this summer in your local area.

Many sessions are free and all are affordable, especially if you buy a Summer Savings Card for as little as £20 – you will get 20 hours of activities. As a special bonus you also get 5 FREE hours of activities between Wednesday 17 August and Friday 14 October.

You will require an Early Years SHOUT, SHOUT or Young Scot card, all of which are available free of charge, to buy a Summer Savings Card – for further information about SHOUT log onto www.eac.eu/shout. Remember to bring your SHOUT card to each session to earn points. Your Savings Card allows the whole family to join in the fun as each cardholder can add 4 other names, allowing them to attend Summer Saving sessions. Sessions are very popular and fill up fast, so to avoid disappointment book early at your local facility.

To view the guides, facility details or for more information about the Summer Savings Card log onto www.eac.eu/beactive. If you have any questions give us a call on 01563 576972 or 554028.

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FRIDAY 29 JULY Woodroad Park Bat Walk This walk will take in the delights of dusk before entering the dark to enjoy the world of bats and night time creatures! Meet in the . . . → Read More: Cumnock and New Cumnock Walking Festivals]]> Get your walking shoes on and take part in this month’s Cumnock and New Cumnock’s Walking Festival with the Countryside Rangers.

FRIDAY 29 JULY
Woodroad Park Bat Walk
This walk will take in the delights of dusk before entering the dark to enjoy the world of bats and night time creatures! Meet in the top car park at 8.30pm.

SATURDAY 30 JULY
The Afton Walk
Look at wildlife of the Afton Water and then enjoy the views from the Glen Afton Road and Burns Cairn. Meet at the Afton Brigend at 10.00am. This walk will last approximately 2 ½ hours.

SWT Knockshinnoch Lagoons Wildlife Reserve, New Cumnock
Knockshinnoch Lagoon is a haven for breeding and wintering birds. Enjoy the wealth of wildlife in one of Ayrshire’s best nature reserves. Meet at the reserve’s car park at 2pm. This walk will last approximately 2 hours.

SUNDAY 31 JULY
Dumfries House Estate walk
Enjoy the Estate’s rich history and pristine countryside. This walk will last from 10am till 12noon
Light refreshments available at the Coach House café from 10.00am to 5.00pm.

Hannahston Community Woodland Walk
This woodland is between Drongan and the A70 Cumnock to Ayr road.
Walk this fantastic reinstated coal site consisting of ponds, mature and newly planted woodland and enjoy the sights and sounds of local nature. This walk will last from 2pm – 4pm.

Advance booking is essential for all the walks. Please contact 01563 522702 or email rangers@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The six day festival, which is sponsored by Klin Kribs, will ensure sure that summer goes off with a bang this July and will feature . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock Fair Festival Helps ELF]]> Kilmarnock Fair Festival got off to a flying start last night with award winning Scottish band Skerryvore and Scottish singer song writer Jill Jackson taking to the main stage.

The six day festival, which is sponsored by Klin Kribs, will ensure sure that summer goes off with a bang this July and will feature a fantastic mix of musical talent. There is no doubt that everyone who attends will be wholly entertained but their attendance will also benefit a local charity – ELF.

Depute Provost John Campbell and Councillor Jim Buchanan, Directors of the Ellie and Laurie Fund (ELF) attended the opening night with Ellie and Laurie and their mum Isobel. They said: “We can’t thank Fiona McKenzie of Centrestage enough for her generosity – she has offered to donate money from every ticket sold to ELF and will be making collections at each event. The little ones really deserve a good chance in life and it is very heartening that so many local people are pulling together to help raise money for them. We wish Fiona every success with the festival.”

The ‘Kilmarnock Fair Festival’ will be presented at two different locations across Kilmarnock. Bank Street will host the ‘Street Fest’ on Friday 8 July, with live music, street performances and a pleasant shopping experience running throughout the day. The other venue is Centrestage Music Theatre on James Little Street. This state of the art and fully functioning theatre facility will host a majority of the events and live artist performances.

Contact 01563 551505 for tickets and further information.

www.centrestagemusictheatre.co.uk/

On Wednesday 3 August from 11am to 3pm the Kay Park in Kilmarnock will be the venue for families to enjoy a myriad of free activities including canoeing, . . . → Read More: PLAYDAY- IT’S FUN, FABULOUS AND FREE]]> Gunge pools, mud slides and rodeo bulls in the Kay Park can only mean one thing – Playday is making a welcome return this August.

On Wednesday 3 August from 11am to 3pm the Kay Park in Kilmarnock will be the venue for families to enjoy a myriad of free activities including canoeing, crate building, face painting and quad biking. Last year the third annual Playday attracted 7,000 people to Kilmarnock making it one of the UK’s busiest events. This year East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development Services EA Positive Play team, in Partnership with East Ayrshire Community Play Forum, needs your support to make Playday 2011 the biggest yet!

Activities take place no matter the weather so bring appropriate clothing and if you want a turn on the mud slide then a change of clothes and a towel is recommended. SHOUT cardholders will receive a mystery gift if they bring their card on the day.

Playday is a national event that celebrates the child’s right to play – It’s Fun, Fabulous and Free.

For further information please contact Rose Anson on 01563 576703.

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The MEND programme is a free 10-week . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire win MEND award]]> A local healthy lifestyle programme has won a prestigious award for its work helping local families in East Ayrshire become healthier and more active.
East Ayrshire Council won the award for Sustainable Outcomes for its outstanding work delivering MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition…Do it!) programmes to local families.

The MEND programme is a free 10-week healthy lifestyle course that provides families with information about healthy eating and how to keep active.

The East Ayrshire Council team was presented with £250 at the prestigious MEND Best Practice Awards ceremony held in London on Friday 10 June. The Best Practice Awards are designed to acknowledge and recognise teams throughout the UK that excel in running the healthy lifestyle programmes in their local community.

Since April 2008, nine programmes have run in East Ayrshire and 50 children and their families have benefited so far.

The MEND programmes for seven to 13 year olds are free to families and have been developed in partnership with child health experts at Great Ormond Street Hospital and the Institute of Child Health. Children who attend the programme increase their fitness levels, reduce their BMI and get a boost in self-esteem.
MEND Chief Executive, Harry MacMillan said: “We’re delighted to recognise East Ayrshire Council for their commitment to helping local families become fitter, healthier and happier. The team who deliver MEND’s healthy lifestyle programmes in East Ayrshire is passionate about improving the health and lives of young people and their families.”

Accepting the award on behalf of East Ayrshire council, MEND programme manager, Lesley Fowler said: “The East Ayrshire team is passionate about improving the health and lives of young people and their families. We were delighted to win the award for Sustainable Outcomes from MEND and we are extremely proud of our achievements.”

Councillor Kathy Morrice, East Ayrshire Council’s Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “The positive impact we have made within East Ayrshire will have a lasting effect on the health and wellbeing of the young people and their families. Special thanks must go to all the staff and volunteers involved who have made such a valuable contribution over the last twelve months. East Ayrshire Council is delighted that our team’s hard work and commitment has been recognised.”

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To ensure that the contribution to medicine of Sir Alexander Fleming is commemorated, East Ayrshire Council is commissioning a piece of artwork for Hastings Square, Darvel.

Fleming, who was born at Lochfield . . . → Read More: New public art to commemorate local heroes]]> Artists will be commissioned to create new public art to commemorate a world-famous Nobel prizewinning scientist – and the ordinary working person.

To ensure that the contribution to medicine of Sir Alexander Fleming is commemorated, East Ayrshire Council is commissioning a piece of artwork for Hastings Square, Darvel.

Fleming, who was born at Lochfield near Darvel in 1881, is famed for his discovery of penicillin, which won him the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1945. The former Kilmarnock Academy pupil died in 1955 and is buried in St. Paul’s Cathedral.

The planned artwork will complement the environmental improvement works already being carried out in the area by Darvel and District Community Council.

Dean Castle Country Park will be the location for another new high profile piece of art to highlight International Workers’ Memorial Day, which takes place annually on 28 April.

A professional artist will be selected for each project by a panel which includes elected members. The appointed artist will then work with local school children, following the success of similar projects in Kay Park (poetry path and benches) and Howard Park (poetry seats).

Work is scheduled to begin in September this year, with completion planned for April 2012. The total funding available for these works as part of East Ayrshire Council’s Ten Year Capital Investment Programme is £0.100m.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: “These new public artworks will greatly enhance the surroundings – but creativity, inspiration, friendship, learning, sharing and citizenship will be the real, lasting outcomes of the projects.

“Our previous public art initiatives have produced really fantastic outcomes – and artists, staff and young people have all benefited enormously from this way of working. I am looking forward to the results of these new projects to see what can be achieved by our very talented young people.”

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For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The walled garden has been part of the Annanhill estate since the early eighteenth century. It started life as beautiful formal gardens for the main house . . . → Read More: Garden set to bloom once again]]> The former walled garden of Annanhill House estate will be blooming once again thanks to a partnership between the Council and green fingered members of the local community.

The walled garden has been part of the Annanhill estate since the early eighteenth century. It started life as beautiful formal gardens for the main house and in time became a public garden which has been enjoyed by many generations of Kilmarnock families. Sadly the gardens closed two years ago having been subject to sustained vandalism and misuse and have since fallen into disrepair – but this is all set to change with the establishment of the Annanhill Allotment Committee.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council said: “I am absolutely delighted that we are working closely with Shona Sneddon and her committee to bring the walled gardens back to life. Shona has been working closely with Felix Wright from Outdoor Amenities to develop the site – this has been an intensive process with soil samples requiring to be taken to ensure suitability; detailed plans being drawn up for the division of the site into allotments and a lease being prepared for the garden by officers from Asset Management.

“Annanhill Gardens has a very special place in the history of our town – so many local people have wonderful memories of visiting the gardens as a child and their incredible beauty. This project will allow them to bloom again.”

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Scottish Power has announced today that they will not implement any reductions to the compensation flow on the River Doon due to the strength of feeling around . . . → Read More: River Doon is Saved]]> The River Doon will continue to be a place of beauty and enterprise thanks to successful campaigning by the Council, the local community and local businesses.

Scottish Power has announced today that they will not implement any reductions to the compensation flow on the River Doon due to the strength of feeling around their proposals and the impact on the wider community.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council said: “This is an excellent decision. We were wholly behind the campaign against these proposals, which was led by the Ayrshire Rivers Trust, and submitted a very detailed response to SEPA objecting to the proposals. The impact of the diversion would have been terrible for the local community and the businesses that rely on visitors to the area for trade – 40 jobs would have been lost if the diversion had gone ahead.

“I am delighted that our joint campaign with South Ayrshire Council, the Ayrshire Rivers Trust and our lobbying of the First Minister has paid off.

“Tourism has a very important role to play in delivering economic regeneration for our area and the River Doon is a spectacular venue for visitors. Scottish Power has shown how responsive multi-national companies can be by responding so positively to the many, many objections and reacted appropriately. I would like to thank them for this decision; it is a real act of good faith which will be welcomed across Ayrshire and the Doon Valley.”

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Many men are reluctant users of traditional health services, such as GPs and pharmacies, and do not always respond to mainstream health awareness campaigns. However, most men . . . → Read More: Surfing helps improve Men’s Health]]> The CHIP van is going on tour next week for National Men’s Health Week and will be encouraging men to take an interest in their health.

Many men are reluctant users of traditional health services, such as GPs and pharmacies, and do not always respond to mainstream health awareness campaigns. However, most men care about their health and do respond to messages when the information is presented in formats that appeal to them.

There is growing evidence that information and services provided through the internet and other technologies can be used to improve men’s health outcomes. 37% of men used the internet for health information in 2009, up from 31% in 2008, according to National Statistics data.

This year, CHIP is doing a Library Tour around East Ayrshire to spread the word on Men’s Health and provide free health checks at the following areas during National Men’s Health – Monday 13 to Sunday 19 June:

Monday 13 June -Drongan 11 am-1pm and Dalrymple 2pm-4pm
Tuesday 14 June – Stewarton 11am-1pm and Kilmaurs 2pm-4pm
Wednesday 15 June – Dick Institute 11am-1pm and Crosshouse 2pm-4pm
Thursday 16 June – Ochiltree 11am-1pm and Galston 2pm-4pm

For more information, contact Kevin Mitchell – Lifestyle Development Officer (Men’s Health) on 01563 578160.

Folk rockers, Ali Downer and his bandmates Nick Dudman (drums/ukulele), Fraser McKirdy (bass/organ), Phil Cardwell (trumpet), Jordan Croan (electric guitar) and Sam Evans (sax) have gone from strength to strength since getting together at . . . → Read More: Woodenbox with A Fistful of Fivers return to the Palace]]> Woodenbox with A Fistful of Fivers is returning to the Palace on Friday 17 June for a raucous live show!

Folk rockers, Ali Downer and his bandmates Nick Dudman (drums/ukulele), Fraser McKirdy (bass/organ), Phil Cardwell (trumpet), Jordan Croan (electric guitar) and Sam Evans (sax) have gone from strength to strength since getting together at the beginning of 2008 and have recently signed to Electric Honey – Biffy Clyro, Belle and Sebastian and Snow Patrol’s record label.

Their album, Home and the Wild Hunt, has been described as ‘a riot of folk and country laments, fired up with delirious horns, it’s a captivating long-player from a hugely exciting band that are destined for big things…’

Supporting Woodenbox will be Unsigned: Unlimited – an exciting project open to 14-25 year olds which allows them to participate in high quality rock and pop activity including song writing, instrument tuition, live performances and recording. The group are reaching the end of the first two years of the project and have produced a CD – Unsigned: Unlimited Studio Demos which will be on sale for £4 on the night.

Tickets are available for £7 or £5 concession from the Palace Theatre Box Office by telephoning 01563 554900 or visit www.visiteastayrshire.com

Find out more about Woodenbox at http://www.myspace.com/awoodenbox or www.wdnbx.com

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Friday 3 June will be your opportunity to try the new high tech treasure . . . → Read More: Happy 5th Birthday River Ayr Way]]> Scotland’s first source to sea footpath – the River Ayr Way – is five years old next month and to celebrate, a range of exciting activities have been organised for the birthday weekend – Friday 3 to Sunday 5 June.

Friday 3 June will be your opportunity to try the new high tech treasure hunting craze sweeping the nation, Geocaching. The Geocaching Challenge will be led by the Countryside Rangers so expect to see some great wildlife and beautiful scenery. The challenge will start from Sorn at 6pm.

On Saturday 4 June at 10am the Rangers will be leading a 6mile walk from Catrine House around the beautiful Ballochmyle Gorge. One of the key sites of interest will be Ballochmyle viaduct which was built to carry the railway across the gorge. When it was completed in 1848, it was the world’s largest masonry span arch and one of the greatest engineering achievements of its time. Walkers will also be able to spot the Cup and Ring markings carved into the sandstone which have been dated between the Neolithic and early Bronze Age and are among the top ten most important ‘Cup and Ring’ sites in Britain.

In the afternoon meet the Rangers at Oswald Hall, Auchincruive Estate at 2pm for a guided cycle. Explore the River Ayr Way as it passes through Auchincruive and Annbank and look out for otters in the river- a common site on this section.

For a serious endurance challenge try the Cairn Table Run – a six mile hill run which will test you to your limit. The race, which takes place on Saturday 4 June, starts at 12pm and entrants can register in the car park at Cairn Table, near Muirkirk on the day.

On Sunday 5 June meet the Countryside Rangers in Failford at 10am for Failford Family Fun. A family fun scavenger hunt will allow families to explore Ayr Gorge and search for treasure.

The final event of the birthday weekend is canoe taster sessions at Glenbuck Loch with Ayr Kayak Club at 1.30pm. Come along and try your hand at this fun sport as well as taking in the natural beauty of Glenbuck – the source of the River Ayr Way. Visit www.theriverayrway.org or telephone 01563 554734 for information.

Since the 44 mile / 66km route was officially opened in 2006 by Radio Scotland’s Fred Macaulay it has since been attracting over 120,000 people each year.

One of the most popular annual events is the River Ayr Way Challenge which will be held this year on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 September. You can walk or run the route and this year we are raising money for the Forces Children’s Trust. Entry forms and further information is available at www.theriverayrway.org.

These events have been funded by East Ayrshire Council and Awards for All.

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Five families, all from the Kilmarnock area, graduated from the first ever MEND 2 – 4 programme and took a massive step towards ensuring the best possible . . . → Read More: MEND – MIND, EXERCISE, NUTRITION, DO IT!]]> Little ones and their families celebrated with the Council’s EA Positive Play team at the first ever MEND graduation ceremony for children aged 2 to 4 years.

Five families, all from the Kilmarnock area, graduated from the first ever MEND 2 – 4 programme and took a massive step towards ensuring the best possible start in life by adopting healthier lifestyle choices.

MEND is a community, family-based programme for children that places emphasis on healthy eating, behaviour change, physical activity and healthy family lifestyles. MEND offered a fun and creative environment over a 10 week period with each session lasting 90 minutes combining active play sessions, snack time, creative play activities and parent discussion groups.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing, attended the graduation and was inspired by the children and their families. She said: “I never fail to be amazed and inspired by the stories and achievements of the families during this short period of time and I always look forward to hearing about the positive changes, not just physically to health but also in confidence and self esteem, that the young people experience.”

For further information on the MEND 2 – 4 programme please contact Allison Young, Play & Recreation Officer on 01563 576719 or email allison.young@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.

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The Council’s Leisure Development Service encouraged East Ayrshire workers to brave the elements and take some exercise on their way to work. Everyone who took part was entered into a prize . . . → Read More: WORKERS WALK TO WORK]]> Despite Scotland’s typical spring weather local workers enthusiastically participated in National Walk to Work Week – Monday 9 – Friday 13 May 2011.

The Council’s Leisure Development Service encouraged East Ayrshire workers to brave the elements and take some exercise on their way to work. Everyone who took part was entered into a prize draw to win a £25 Clarks Shoes voucher and the lucky winner was Christine Pollock from Barshare.

Walking is an easy form of exercise requiring no special equipment and can be fitted in on your way to or from work, at lunchtime or throughout the day. It’s a great way to ensure that being desk-bound at work doesn’t stop you being active.

By walking 10,000 steps a day, which is about five miles, you can keep your heart healthy and reduce your body fat. There are many benefits related to walking regularly which can go some way to helping reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, cancer, osteoporosis and arthritis. There are also mental health and wellbeing benefits associated with regularly taking part in walking such as helping you deal with anxiety and stress and it is thought that it may even reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Leisure Development’s Health team offers CATCH health walks which are suitable for all levels of fitness and perfect for anyone recovering from a period of ill health. All walks are free of charge and are approximately 40 minutes to one hour in length. Specialised walks and longer, more strenuous walks for those who are fitter or enjoy a longer walk are also available.

If you would like further information please contact Faye Forsyth on 01563 576707 or email faye.forsyth@east-ayrshire.gov.uk you can also log onto http://www.walkingworks.org.uk/walk-to-work-week-2011

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At least one child dies each year in the UK from blind cord strangulation and children below the age of four are at most at risk with death . . . → Read More: CHILD SAFETY WEEK REMINDER]]> With Child Safety Week approaching the Trading Standards Service is taking the opportunity to warn parents, and businesses, about the dangers of window blind cords.

At least one child dies each year in the UK from blind cord strangulation and children below the age of four are at most at risk with death coming in seconds as a child struggles to get free.

Such tragic accidents can however be avoided. There are a few simple steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of strangulation:
• ensure all looped blind cords and chairs are kept out of children’s reach
• move all furniture, that children might climb on, away from window blinds
• install safety devices to keep blind cords out of reach
• do not place a child’s cot, bed, highchair or playpen near to a window blind
• when buying new blinds ensure that the blinds you purchase can be fitted safely – by the use of safety devices such as cleats, cord/chain tidies or chain-break connectors or even better choose blinds that don’t contain cords or have concealed cords.

Trading Standards Officers have been visiting local manufacturers of blinds to advise them of a new safety standard on the construction of blinds which requires that a notice warning of the risk of strangulation be attached to the product and the blinds be designed so that cords and loops are not accessible or a suitable safety device provided.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “Child Safety Week, which starts on Monday 20 June, is entitled – Take a second look for safety and that is what I am asking parents to do. Take a second look at the blinds and curtains around your home and take steps to protect your children from harm.”

Any businesses who requires further information should contact Trading Standards on 01563 521502.

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Greek delicacies coming to Kilmarnock

Traders from around the world will be plying their wares in the town from Thursday 2nd until . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock Markets go Global]]>

Greek delicacies coming to Kilmarnock

Traders from around the world will be plying their wares in the town from Thursday 2nd until Sunday 5th June with a huge range of crafts, gifts, fresh foods and food products from around the world. And for those who are unsure just what to do with some of the more exotic ingredients, recipe tips and cookery demonstrations will all be part of the experience.

Town Centre Manager Fiona Nicolson says: “This Global Village event has grown from a Continental Market, attracting traders from countries outside Europe including Thailand, China, India, Russia, South Africa and Peru, bringing a host of products right into the heart of Kilmarnock.”

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Community Regeneration said: “We’re delighted to be bringing this market to Kilmarnock Town Centre as one of a number of initiatives to encourage people to support and enjoy their local shopping area. This four day event will give the town a lively buzz for the start of the summer and generate more business for local traders too.”

The Global Market, run in conjunction with Market Place Europe, will run from Thursday 2 June until Sunday 5 June.

During the holidays MAX camps ran every morning in Grange Leisure Centre, Kilmarnock, for the first week and in Cumnock Academy during week two. The children attending got the chance to develop . . . → Read More: EAST AYRSHIRE KIDS TOOK IT TO THE MAX!]]> Motivators from East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development Services delivered a fun-packed programme for over 900 local kids during the school spring break.

During the holidays MAX camps ran every morning in Grange Leisure Centre, Kilmarnock, for the first week and in Cumnock Academy during week two. The children attending got the chance to develop their skills in short tennis and create a variety of Easter arts and crafts, as well as experiencing Ultimate Frisbee, Velcro handball and BOCCIA.

The Motivators also provided SHOUT clubs in many areas throughout East Ayrshire in the afternoons, where children had two hours of fun with a wide variety of play, sport and healthy games and activities on offer.

In addition to the Max and SHOUT clubs, the SHOUT card, which was used by almost 800 kids during the school holidays, also provided local children with free access to all swimming pools in East Ayrshire.

If you would like further information on MAX or SHOUT clubs running in your area please contact the Health & Activity Motivators on 01563 576858 or 01563 578224 or email barry.holmes@east-ayrshire.gov.uk or greg.gallagher@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

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Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley Willie Coffey Scottish National Party 16964 Grant Fergusson Scottish Conservative & Unionist 3309 Matt McLaughlin Scottish Labour Party 10971 Robbie Simpson Scottish Liberal Democrats 614

Total votes cast 31858

Willie Coffey was elected . . . → Read More: SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT ELECTION RESULTS 2011]]> Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley Constituency
Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley Constituency
Scottish Parliament Election Results 2011

Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley
Willie Coffey Scottish National Party 16964
Grant Fergusson Scottish Conservative & Unionist 3309
Matt McLaughlin Scottish Labour Party 10971
Robbie Simpson Scottish Liberal Democrats 614

Total votes cast 31858

Willie Coffey was elected with a majority of 5993
The turnout figure within the Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley Constituency was 50.5%

Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley
Andrew Chamberlain Scottish Liberal Democrats 624
Adam Ingram Scottish National Party 13250
Peter Kennerley Scottish Conservative & Unionist 4160
Richard Leonard Scottish Labour Party 10669

Total votes cast 28703

Adam Ingram was elected with a majority of 2581.
The turnout figure within the Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley was 48.5%

Notes to Editor

• The Chief Returning Officer was Fiona Lees.

• There were a total of 73 polling places in Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley and 75 polling places in Cumnock, Carrick and Doon Valley which were open from 7am to 10pm.

• Polling stations were located mainly public buildings and some schools, but Moscow had a mobile unit.

• There were a total of 519 ballot boxes which were transported to the Grand Hall in Kilmarnock for the count when the polls closed at 10pm.

• Enumerators were standing by in the Grand Hall to begin the count as soon as the ballot boxes arrived.

• The number of applications received for postal votes for the Scottish Parliamentary election for the Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley Constituency was 8368 and the Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley Constituency was 9238.

• The current electorate for the Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley Constituency is 63680.
• The current electorate for the Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley Constituency is 59846.

• For the past two Parliamentary elections, the turnout figures were:
Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley (previously Kilmarnock & Loudoun)
2003-51.93%
2007-56.71%

Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley
2003- 53.1%
2007- 53.72%

• After the election, political parties have 48 hours to remove all literature and posters from public display.

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The £5.6m development will include a 400m outdoor athletics track with full field event facilities, an indoor training space which will include a strength and . . . → Read More: ATHLETICS TRACK IS LEAPING FORWARD]]> The builders are on site and the ground is being prepared for Kilmarnock’s own super Sports Park which will provide state-of-the-art athletics facilities in the heart of the town.

The £5.6m development will include a 400m outdoor athletics track with full field event facilities, an indoor training space which will include a strength and conditioning room. The designs have been prepared by Athletics and Sports Consultants (ASC) to ensure that the facility meets UK Athletics Grade 1 certification.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council who visited the site to view progress said: “The athletics track is going to be a real draw for athletics throughout the West of Scotland. We chose the Queens Drive site as it is the right size for such a facility but it is also easily accessible with excellent transport links to the A77 and A71.

“The Council’s Asset Improvement team are liaising closely with the construction company CBC and they are well underway to prepare the ground at the site for building work to start.”

Partnership working has been key to success of this project to date. The project team has liaised with Kilmarnock Academy to ensure that their pupils are able to take advantage of the state-of-the-art facilities and encourage young people to participate in sport at the highest level. The Kilmarnock Harriers are also a key partner – this thriving club has members of all ages and their athletes compete in competitions all over the country. The design of the facility has also taken their requirements into consideration. The track will be open to the wide community and will allow people of all ages and abilities to take part in athletics.

Donald McIntosh, Chair of the East Ayrshire Athletics Partnership said: “This is the most exciting thing to happen to Athletics in Ayrshire for a long time. It will not only provide an excellent facility for Kilmarnock Harriers to train at, but so many other sports clubs in the area will be able to take advantage of this facility not least of all the schools and we will hopefully see a steady flow of athletes to the club. The facility will have a Mondo surface which is the preferred surface of wheelchair athletes so we should also see a development of this sport in Ayrshire.”

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The refurbishment will mean that there will be year round access to the changing area for junior members and additional space in the . . . → Read More: BOWLS HOUSE UPS ITS GAME]]> The dated Bowls House changing area at Townholm Bowling Club will soon be getting a makeover after the Council’s Cabinet approved just over £25,000 of funding from its Developer Contributions Fund.

The refurbishment will mean that there will be year round access to the changing area for junior members and additional space in the winter months that can be used by senior members.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration, said: “This funding will help the 170 members of the club to make better and increased use of the changing area all year round. The upgrading work will also help to provide a facility which could be used by the local community, meaning revenue being generated for the Club.”

Jim McCrum, President of Townholm Bowling Club said: “I would like to thank the Council for the grant which will make a huge difference to the club. We probably have the best bowling club in Kilmarnock with county links, regional links and national links. This investment is massive and will help to develop junior bowling locally. It is a great boost for the whole area.”

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The food festival will have something for all the family and is sure to get the taste buds tingling. Alisdair Hood, head chef at Merchants . . . → Read More: 1839…..GOTHIC FOOD FESTIVAL]]> Inspired by this summer’s exciting exhibition 1839….A Gothic Adventure, the Dick Institute in Kilmarnock is hosting a free Gothic Food Festival on Saturday 14 May between 11am and 4pm.

The food festival will have something for all the family and is sure to get the taste buds tingling. Alisdair Hood, head chef at Merchants Restaurant, will be showing off his culinary skills with cooking demonstrations with a gothic twist. You will be able to meet medieval characters; experience some traditional cooking methods, including a medieval bread oven; and sample a delicious hog roast. Curator talks about the new exhibition will also be taking place throughout the day.

This event is part of the Festival of Museums programme and is supported by a Museums Galleries Scotland grant. Visit www.FestivalofMuseums.com for details.

For more information on 1839…A Gothic Adventure contact 01563 554902 or visit www.futuremuseum.co.uk or www.visiteastayrshire.com

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This year, the honour of performing that piece of magic . . . → Read More: STILL GAME STAR TO PLAY FAIRY GODMOTHER IN PALACE PANTOMIME]]> Preparations are well underway for Cinderella to go to the ball at the Palace Theatre, Kilmarnock this Christmas, and they’ve been busy working out just who will play the Fairy Godmother and get to cast the magic spell that turns Cinderella’s rags to riches.

This year, the honour of performing that piece of magic will fall to Jane McCarry, best known to children for her roles as Granny Murray in the CBeebies hit show ‘Me Too’. Jane is also a very familiar face to fans of the show ‘Still Game’ where she played Isa Drennan.

Jane will join panto star Liam Dolan in the magical production. Liam once again returns to direct and star in the show, this year playing Buttons. This will be Liam’s 7th year performing at the Palace and already over 2000 seats have already been booked for this year’s show!

Liam said “I am delighted to be returning to the Palace again this year. We get such an amazing reaction, and audience numbers are growing year on year. I’m thrilled that Jane will be joining us this year, as she is so well known and popular and will make a fantastic Fairy Godmother. The thing that is so special about the Kilmarnock panto is the fact that it has a really local focus.

Cinderella is the most loved of all the pantomime stories and as usual, the Palace panto promises sparkling sets, beautiful costumes, messy slapstick, and a high quality, fun panto for all the family at a really affordable price. That’s a really positive thing for the current financial climate.”

Jane is no stranger to pantomime, having already worked her magic as Fairy Godmother once before, at the Kings Theatre in Glasgow over Christmas 2005. She says “I had such a fun time last time I did pantomime, and when the Palace invited me to join their cast this year, I was absolutely delighted to accept. The Palace has a really strong reputation for great family panto and I can’t wait to weave my own fairy magic to make Cinderella go to the ball!”

The show is produced by Imagine Theatre in association with East Ayrshire Arts and Museums section.

Cinderella runs from November 25 – December 30, 2011. For more information on tickets call the box office on 01563 554900 or visit the website www.visiteastayrshire.com

Issued on behalf of Imagine Theatre and the Palace Theatre, Kilmarnock

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Absolute Elvis on Saturday 30 April will make sure you aren’t feeling lonesome that night. This fantastic show features over two hours of Elvis greats from Johnny . . . → Read More: THE NEW GUIDE MAGAZINE IS BURSTING WITH GREAT SHOWS AND EXHIBITIONS]]> Pick up the latest edition of The Guide magazine – it is full to bursting with amazing shows, music and comedy coming up at the Palace Theatre.

Absolute Elvis on Saturday 30 April will make sure you aren’t feeling lonesome that night. This fantastic show features over two hours of Elvis greats from Johnny Lee Memphis, outright winner the World Champion Elvis Tribute in 2010. Tickets £15 / £12.50.

The HaHa Comedy Club on Thursday 5 May with Ian Cognito, one of the best comics on the national circuit. The show contains adult content and swearing and is therefore recommended for 16 years+. Tickets are priced at £8.50 or £30 for a group of four.

Rock your socks off on Friday 6 May with Rock ‘n’ Roll Paradise. From Elvis and Roy Orbison to Buddy Holly and Jerry Lee Lewis, this show is guaranteed to have you dancing in the aisles. Tickets are £15.

You can dance, you can jive, come have the time of your life on Saturday 7 May and enjoy The Music of Mamma Mia. A feel good show for all the family featuring all the songs from the hit movie, spectacular costumes, impressive vocals and outstanding choreography. Tickets are £12 / £13.50

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning said: “In addition to all these brilliant shows the latest edition of The Guide also contains information on a fantastic new exhibition due to open on Saturday 30 April at The Dick and Dean Castle. 1839…A Gothic Adventure is one of the most ambitious exhibitions East Ayrshire has ever staged and draws on collections from throughout the country. It tells an iconic Ayrshire story about the last great endeavour of the Gothic Revival – the Eglinton Tournament which attracted over 100,000 people to the area. The exhibition is free and will be a memorable day out for all the family.”

For full details of all upcoming shows and exhibitions across the Palace Theatre, Dean Castle, The Dick, Burns House, Baird Institute and Doon Valley Museum, pick up a copy of The Guide at the Palace Box Office, telephone 01563 554902 or visit www.visiteastayrshire.com

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190 pupils from 19 schools throughout East Ayrshire had fought hard during the season . . . → Read More: NEW FARM CROWNED MINI BASKETBALL CHAMPIONS]]> The Mini Basketball championship came to an electrifying end recently with four schools battling to be crowned 2011 Primary Seven Mini Basketball League Champions at the Kelvinhall, Glasgow – home of the Glasgow Rocks, Scotland’s only professional basketball team.

190 pupils from 19 schools throughout East Ayrshire had fought hard during the season for a place in the final and the four teams who travelled to Glasgow were New Farm Primary, Mauchline Primary, Fenwick Primary and Dalmellington Primary.

The third and fourth place play-off match went into overtime with Fenwick running out eventual winners after narrowly defeating Mauchline. Fenwick came back from losing 2-0 in dramatic fashion by scoring with seconds remaining in normal time to take the match into overtime. After a tense battle in overtime with 30 seconds remaining, Fenwick snatched the victory from Mauchline, who were first time participants in this championship.

The Grand Final was just as spectacular and exciting with New Farm edging out Dalmellington Primary in a nail-biting match. With end to end action, this match was an excellent demonstration of how primary school basketball should be played. In the end, New Farm defeated a strong Dalmellington team 2-0.

Scott Russell, Pro Player with the Glasgow Rocks was impressed by the quality of play. He said: “Having seen many primary school finals at Kelvinhall Arena, this definitely ranks as one of the best. Basketball, particularly in East Ayrshire, has been strong for a number of years and hopefully this will continue.”

All participating teams met both sets of professional team players prior to the match and had team photos taken with them both before and after the match. They were presented with their certificates and medals by Councillor Kathy Morrice and Executive Director of Educational and Social Services, Graham Short.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing, who was present during the match, said: “What an amazing event – we all had a wonderful day enthusiastically cheering on our talented youngsters and I know that the young people themselves really did have a day to remember. I was delighted to present the medals to our teams and congratulate them on their success.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Promoting Lifelong Learning said: “Education isn’t just about learning in the classroom it is about giving our young people opportunities and encouraging them to become successful learners and confident individuals. This event is a real inspiration for our young people and I would like to congratulate the teams and of course their teachers on their success.”

This fantastic event was delivered by East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development Service in partnership with Scottish Sports Futures and the Glasgow Rocks. It is designed to enthuse and inspire young people to have a lifelong involvement in sport.

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The activities will be completely free to all users and will start on Saturday 23 April. Not only will the attendees get . . . → Read More: HOCKEY NIGHTS AT ONTHANK STREETSPORT CAGE]]> Scottish Hockey and Leisure Development have teamed up to run a ten week block of Hockey sessions at the Onthank StreetSport Cage, Meiklewood Road on Saturday nights between 7pm – 9pm.

The activities will be completely free to all users and will start on Saturday 23 April. Not only will the attendees get to experience Hockey but they will also get the chance to win a £15 iTunes voucher just for being there.

Keith Joss, Development Officer from Scottish Hockey said: “Scottish Hockey has committed to expanding our delivery of hockey cross local authorities in Scotland, so we’re delighted to be working in partnership with East Ayrshire Council to introduce ‘Hockey Nights’ to Onthank. We hope that local youngsters will take up the opportunity to participate in a new activity and we would welcome them to come along to give hockey a try and have a bit of fun. You don’t need to have played hockey before to take part either, and we’d love to see as many newcomers as possible at the Onthank StreetSport Cage.”

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “Our StreetSport Cages are an innovative way of giving young people the opportunity to try new sports and effectively divert them away from antisocial behaviour. I am delighted that we are expanding the sports on offer to our young people and I am sure that through partnership working Hockey Nights will be a huge success!”

For more information on this and other StreetSport activities in Onthank and throughout East Ayrshire contact EAC’s Youth Sport Development Officer on 01563 576871.

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The show is opened by the Big Bopper, the show’s compere who links the acts . . . → Read More: DON’T MISS ROCK’N’ROLL PARADISE AT THE PALACE]]> Rock ‘n’ Roll Paradise is a brilliant rock ‘n’ roll show that does exactly what it says on the tin! There’s no plot, no storyline, it’s simply a fantastic rock ‘n’ roll show where music plays the leading role.

The show is opened by the Big Bopper, the show’s compere who links the acts and entertains throughout the show with witty repartee and spirited renditions of his solo songs. The incredibly talented cast bring to life the spirit of the rock ‘n’ roll era, reminding you at every turn why this music has stood the test of time. Just try not tapping your foot as Jerry Lee rips into Great Balls of Fire with a passion. Feel the shivers in your spine as Roy Orbison soars gracefully through his classic songs and watch with delight as Eddie Cochran and Buddy Holly explode onto the stage like the first guitar heroes. Phew….and that’s just the first half!

The second half opens with a concert within a concert as you’re taken through the years of Elvis’ later tours, complete with Vegas jump-suits, belts and rings. And then from out of nowhere you are back with Buddy, Eddie, The Big O and the others, with the energy building to fever pitch, leaving the audience demanding more.

This is rock ‘n’ roll music at its very best played with the commitment and honesty that the originals would be proud of. Richard Atkins is widely regarded as the best late-period Elvis there is, and the rest of the cast are equally strong. John-Simon Rawlings brings all the warmth and charisma to the role of J.P. Richardson, The Big Bopper, that one would expect given his West End pedigree, and Peter Jackson’s Eddie Cochran Is so true to his hero, it is easy to understand why he’s attracting the attention of the Cochran fan clubs. Darren Green brilliantly captures the energy and zaniness of The Killer to perfection; and any Orbison fans will tell you that they don’t come any better than Johnny Curtiss. 2011 sees Nick Player step into the Buddy Holly role with the all energy and musical precision of the man himself.

Go and see this show as soon as you can. Brought to you by Lord Tim Croxford of Accelerator Entertainments, it is a spectacular celebration of rock ‘n’ roll music, performed and enjoyed by the cast so that the audience can participate and take a step back in time to a very special era. Rock ‘n’ Roll Paradise is, quite simply, the very, very best……….

To find out more visit www.rocknrollparadise.co.uk or look on Facebook for Rock ‘n’ Roll Paradise.

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This fantastic show features over two hours of Elvis greats performed by Johnny Lee Memphis and his superb JLM band featuring the Memphettes!

Johnny Lee Memphis won the outright World . . . → Read More: WORLD CHAMPION ELVIS TRIBUTE COMES TO THE PALACE]]> The King will be at the Palace on Saturday 30 April when award winning Elvis tribute Johnny Lee Memphis takes to the stage.

This fantastic show features over two hours of Elvis greats performed by Johnny Lee Memphis and his superb JLM band featuring the Memphettes!

Johnny Lee Memphis won the outright World Champion Elvis tribute in 2010 and Charles Stone, Elvis Presley’s Tour Manager and close friend said: “I have known Johnny Lee Memphis for a few years, and he is one of my favourite Elvis Tribute Artists. He shows total respect for Elvis and his music, his performance is at the top of the tribute world; his personality is such that you think you have met your best friend, just as Elvis would have treated someone.”

This show is a must see for all Elvis fans!

Tickets are on sale at the Box Office priced £15, £12.50 – contact 01563 554900 or visit the Box Office between 10am and 5pm for tickets.

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The skills that are shared in the MEND 2-4 Programme sessions, which is specifically for children aged 2 to 4 years, can help . . . → Read More: MEND–ING LITTLE FUSSY EATERS]]> The MEND 2-4 Programme (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition…Do it!) was designed by experts and is part of a national initiative to help parents give their young children a healthy start in life.

The skills that are shared in the MEND 2-4 Programme sessions, which is specifically for children aged 2 to 4 years, can help reduce the amount of time young children spend watching television, increase the time spent playing as a family, tame temper tantrums, help children increase their confidence and encourage happier meal times, all of which builds a foundation for establishing lifelong, healthy lifestyle habits.

The first pilot programme in East Ayrshire is currently taking place at Bonnyton Community Centre with five families participating. The programme runs over a 10 week period where parents/carer and their children take part in sessions lasting 90 minutes. The sessions combine active play, snack time, creative play activities and parent discussion groups. Families who are currently taking part have found their children now enjoy a wider variety of food and are becoming more active.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “The Leisure Development Service delivers a range of activities that promote improved health and wellbeing and this intervention in particular will have a major positive impact, not only on the aspects of physical health as expected, but also socially by truly improving the confidence and self esteem of the participants. I would like to both congratulate and thank the Mend staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm and commitment to improving the lives of East Ayrshire families.”

MEND 2-4 Programme Manager, Allison Young said: “This fantastic free course gives local families with young children in East Ayrshire a healthy start in life. The sessions encourage children to try new fruits and vegetables and show parents how they can be creative in playing with their children. Five families have already taken up the opportunity to help their children form healthy habits that could last a lifetime.”

For any further information regarding MEND 2 – 4 and any future programmes please contact Allison Young, Play & Recreation Officer on 01563 576719.

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According to Paul McDonald, Kilmarnock Football Club’s Community Coach: “There is at least one Street Footballer in East Ayrshire who has the talent to make it as . . . → Read More: STREET FOOTBALLERS GET A SHOT AT THE PROS!]]> The StreetSport Icon competition is making a welcome return this year when talented street footballers will be given an amazing opportunity to train with Kilmarnock FC.

According to Paul McDonald, Kilmarnock Football Club’s Community Coach: “There is at least one Street Footballer in East Ayrshire who has the talent to make it as a professional football player. There are literally hundreds of reasons that players may miss out on getting selected for clubs. They may have been a late developer; they may have been played out of position at club or school level or they may have picked up an interest in football later on in their youth.

“Ian Wright is probably one of the most famous examples of such a player. He was spotted when he was 22 playing Sunday League football and went on to win 33 caps for England and of course there is Killie hero Gary Holt who joined Kilmarnock having had a career in the Army as a chef – he went on to win 10 Scotland caps.”

Both of these players literally came off the street to play football at the highest level and that’s the talent Paul is looking for when Kilmarnock Football Club’s StreetSport Icon returns this summer.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “The competition, which is organised by the Council’s Leisure Development Services, has proved to be a major success over the last two years with over 1500 young people competing for a professional training experience with Kilmarnock FC. Through the initiative twenty four talented youngsters aged between 10 and 18 years have been selected. The training week includes full Killie training gear, professional coaching and diet plan and lunch each day with the Kilmarnock players.”

If you want to be part of StreetSport Icon in 2011 you can register in the following ways:
• Email your name, age and address to craig.fulton@east-ayrshire.gov.uk
• Find EAC Sport on Facebook and send a private message including name, age and address
• Visit the Leisure Development Officers, Civic Centre North, John Finnie Street and fill out a form.

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MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do it!) runs fun-filled programmes for local families with children who are above a healthy weight for their age and height, to help them become . . . → Read More: EAST AYRSHIRE KIDS CELEBRATE MEND SUCCESS]]> A free healthy lifestyle club running in Kilmarnock celebrated the success of its latest group of graduates at a special ceremony at Shortlees Community Centre.

MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do it!) runs fun-filled programmes for local families with children who are above a healthy weight for their age and height, to help them become healthier and more active.

At the graduation event, five local families took part in a special ceremony to celebrate their achievements in becoming fitter and healthier. Children received certificates to recognise their progress on the 10-week course.

Families taking part in the programme in Kilmarnock reported that their children had more energy and had grown in self confidence. Pamela, a local parent who attended the East Ayrshire’s MEND programme with her daughter said: “As a family we have found the programme to not only benefit my daughter, but our family as a whole. We love getting the children involved in meal times and have found that our little girl loves to cook and along with her brother.”

Lesley Fowler, Leisure Development’s, Recreation Partnership Officer (Target Groups) said: “It’s been great to see the children become healthier and fitter over the last 10 weeks and watch their self esteem and confidence grow. MEND teaches families how they can incorporate healthy habits into their daily lives so they can stay healthy for life.”

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing was inspired by the children and their families, she added: “I enjoyed meeting with the families and hearing their stories and achievements and I am always amazed by the positive changes that have taken place – not just the intended physical health changes that are measured, but also the improvements in confidence, self esteem and overall lifestyle which occur over the ten week period.”

The MEND programme has been developed in partnership with child health experts at Great Ormond Street Hospital and the Institute of Child Health. The programme is worth £400 per family and this is funded by East Ayrshire Council, NHS Ayrshire and Arran and the Community Planning Partnership, who are offering local families the places free of charge.

If you think your child is above a healthy weight and you would like to register your family for the next MEND programme please contact Lesley Fowler, Recreation Partnership Officer on 01563 576684 or Lesley.fowler@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.

Due to the success of previous MEND programmes, the Recreation Partnership Service is running its ninth programme, for children aged 7 to 13 years, starting on 26 April 2011. All sessions are free but spaces are limited.

Notes to Editor

For further information please contact Lesley Fowler, Recreation Partnership Officer (Target Groups) 01563 676684 or email Lesley.fowler@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

About MEND
• MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition…Do it!) is a social enterprise that runs free, fun healthy lifestyle programmes for families with children aged between two and 13 years
• Since it was founded in 2004, MEND has helped over 20,000 families to become fitter, healthier and happier by providing information about healthy eating and how to keep active
• Developed in partnership with child health experts at Great Ormond Street Hospital and the University College London’s Institute of Child Health, independent research shows that the MEND 7-13 Programme helps children lose weight and improve their fitness and self-esteem
• A National Third Sector Partner of the Department of Health’s Change4Life campaign, MEND’s free healthy lifestyle programmes are delivered across the UK by a range of public and private sector partners
• www.mendcentral.org

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 Easter in Cumnock and Kilmarnock will be bursting with art and music as “The Travelling Gallery” comes to town. The state of the art travelling exhibition space, housed on a custom built single decker bus, will be based at The Cross in Kilmarnock from Monday 11 April until Wednesday . . . → Read More: ART COMES TO TOWN AS TRAVELLING EXHIBTION ROLLS IN]]>

The Travelling Gallery

 Easter in Cumnock and Kilmarnock will be bursting with art and music as “The Travelling Gallery” comes to town. The state of the art travelling exhibition space, housed on a custom built single decker bus, will be based at The Cross in Kilmarnock from Monday 11 April until Wednesday 13 April and at the square at Cumnock on Thursday 14^th and Friday 15^th April.

Open from 11.00am until 5.00pm the free exhibition has been organised through East Ayrshire Council Education Department’s Creative Minds Team. A group show exploring the use of drawing within various media including sculpture and film, ‘Drawn In’ includes commissioned works from Rob Churm, Katy Dove and Franziska Furter. The exhibition also displays drawings and other works from international artists including Alex Frost, Sachiko Abe and Nicolas Party.

To accompany the art in Cumnock local girls will be adding their musical talents.  The Cumnock Girls Vocal School will give a thirty minute performance outside the gallery from 2pm. The Vocal School draws young people from schools around Cumnock to learn fun songs and choreography. The first School, held during February, culminated in a very successful concert at Cumnock Academy. This time, thanks to Cumnock Town Centre Regeneration and East Ayrshire Council, they are delighted to have the opportunity to sing at the Travelling Gallery.

Councillor Robert McDill spokesperson for Community Regeneration said:” We’re delighted to be hosting these visits from the Travelling Gallery. In Cumnock it is lovely to see local girls having the opportunity to join in with their public performance. The old square really lends itself to events like this and in Kilmarnock the gallery is bound to attract the crowds to the Cross”

Cumnock Town Centre Manager, Kathryn Howell said: “This is just one of a number of exciting events we have planned for the town centre over the coming months.  We’re making great efforts to encourage people to “shop local” and events like this make the whole town centre experience more fun. The square is a natural venue for gatherings, and we’re particularly looking forward to hosting the farmers’ markets which will run on the fourth Friday of every month from May until September.”

 In Kilmarnock, Town Centre Manager Fiona Nicolson said: “Our “shop local” campaign is already showing results and events like this bring the town centre to life. The Cross is a natural venue for gatherings, and with our regular farmers’ and craft markets running through the summer there is always plenty to see and do.”

Over 50 children and young people took part in five sports from around the world including Handball, American Football, Karrisa and Cricket. However, the most popular by far was the Japanese national sport of Sumo . . . → Read More: SPORTS DAY KICKS OFF EQUALITIES WEEK]]> Leisure Development helped to kick off Equalities Week recently with a World Sports Day at Mauchline Games Gall.

Over 50 children and young people took part in five sports from around the world including Handball, American Football, Karrisa and Cricket. However, the most popular by far was the Japanese national sport of Sumo wrestling. Using padded sumo suits the children had a great time wrestling each other to the ground which of course had the desired effect of getting the young people physically active.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “Equalities Week celebrated the diverse population of East Ayrshire and showcased many of the voluntary groups and statutory organisations who make valuable contributions to ensuring that each and every person’s needs are met and rights upheld. The week also consisted of showcase events including an Inclusive Design Seminar and a Talent Show hosted by the Virtual Inclusive Partnership (VIP) which allowed the opportunity to promote equality and good relations.

“World Sports Day introduced children, young people and parents to a range of sports which represent their respective countries and show that there are opportunities beyond the most commonly played sports in Scotland.”

For further information please contact Leisure Development on 01563 576871.

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A public consultation event was held last week and representatives from the Council’s Leisure and Asset Improvement Services were on hand to present the design and location of the proposed facilities to local residents.

Councillor . . . → Read More: KNOCKENTIBER HUB TAKES A STEP FORWARD]]> Another positive step has been taken towards a new football pavilion and community meeting facility for Knockentiber.

A public consultation event was held last week and representatives from the Council’s Leisure and Asset Improvement Services were on hand to present the design and location of the proposed facilities to local residents.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council said: “We had a very positive meeting with members of the community regarding the new pavilion. The meeting was really well attended and although a number of minor issues were raised regarding the amenities adjacent to the site – the overall consensus was that the location of the new building was ideal! There was also real support for the demolition of the playbarn, which has become a bit of an eyesore.

“With this positive feedback from the community we now hope to proceed with the new building as quickly as possible to enable the community to not only enjoy first class changing facilities but also the social area within the building for meetings and community events.”

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After fierce competition Gargieston Primary and Grange Academy were named 2011 School . . . → Read More: EAST AYRSHIRE SCHOOLS CROSS COUNTRY]]> Stewarton Academy was the venue for the annual Kilmarnock Harrier AAC Schools Cross Country Event and despite the cold and windy weather an incredible 600 primary and secondary pupils competed in the event which was organised by the East Ayrshire Athletics Partnership.

After fierce competition Gargieston Primary and Grange Academy were named 2011 School Cross Country Team Champions. The runners from both teams showed great determination to complete the race in good time, scoring the highest overall points. The winners were:

Primary 6 Boys Race 1000m
1st Craig Phillips (Gargieston Primary School)
2nd Ewan Grant (Gargieston Primary School)
3rd Jamie Mee (Gargieston Primary School)
Primary 6 Girl Race 1000m
1st Katie Greensmith (Silverwood Primary School)
2nd Cherona Clark (Netherthird Primary School)
3rd Evie Bartl (Gargieston Primary School)
Primary 7 Boys Race 1400m
1st William Lake (Gargieston Primary School)
2nd Thomas Carmicheal (Kirkstyle Primary School)
3rd Andrew Partidge (Kilmaurs Primary school)/ Steven McClelland (Dalmellington Primary school)
Primary 7 Girls Race 1400m
1st Caitlin McClournie (New Cumnock Primary School)
2nd Lauren Dodds (New Farm Primary School)
3rd Lauren Harnson (Greenmill Primary School)
S1 Boys 2000m
1st Angus Kerr (Loudoun Academy)
2nd Andrew Sibbald (Stewarton Academy)
3rd Ruaridh Kerr (Stewarton Academy)
S1 Girl 2000m
1st Natasha Allen (Stewarton Academy)
2nd Rachel Nicolson (Grange Academy)
3rd Claire Orr (Stewarton Academy)
S2 Boys 2000m
1st Grant Forbes (Grange Academy)
2nd Rory Jamieson (Grange Academy)
3rd Reece Wallace (Grange Academy)
S2 Girl 2000m
1st Amy Donnelly(St Joseph’s Academy)
2nd Amy Mole (Grange Academy)
3rd Alanis Bryden (Kilmarnock Academy)
S3 Boys 3000m
1st Robbie Muir (Grange Academy)
2nd Steven Wright (James Hamilton Academy)
3rd Blair Mackie (Grange Academy)
S3 Girl 3000m
1st Lorne Kerr (Loudoun Academy)
2nd Bethany More (St Joseph’s Academy)
3rd Rebecca Gilroy (James Hamilton Academy)

Councillor Kathy Morrice Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “East Ayrshire Athletics Partnership comprises of representatives from Leisure Development Services, Educational and Social Services, Kilmarnock Harriers AAC and Scottishathletics. The group provides a united approach to developing athletics within East Ayrshire and the School Cross Country race is just one of the extremely successful events the Partnership organises. It is important to the development of athletics in East Ayrshire that a unified approach is taken so that there is a clear pathway for development to allow children, young people to adults to progress within the sport.”

Members of the Kilmarnock Harriers were assisting at the event and took the opportunity to spot for talent. Many of the runners have received an invitation to join the club.

Donald McIntosh, Chairperson of the Partnership and Vice President of the Kilmarnock Harriers AAC said: “There were some great runners at the Cross Country event and we’re very hopeful that many of these talented young people will join the Kilmarnock Harriers.”

If you would like more information on the current athletics provision in East Ayrshire please contact Louise West, Athletics Development and Facility Officer on 01563 576713.

Remember to check out www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk from Friday 1 April for information and a booking form for the forthcoming Ruby’s Ayrshire Hospice Race. Ruby’s Race will be held on Sunday 12 June at Dean Castle and Country Park with a 5km sponsored race for women and men, sponsored 3km Fun Run for under 15’s, and sponsored walk for everyone.

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The SHOUT card is a free membership card designed specifically for primary school aged children living within East Ayrshire. . . . → Read More: COOKING IN WITH A SHOUT!]]> SHOUT prize winner Carmen Chow enjoyed a great day out with her friends at the Cook School Scotland and all she had to do to win this fantastic prize was to use her SHOUT card!

The SHOUT card is a free membership card designed specifically for primary school aged children living within East Ayrshire. The main aim of the SHOUT card is to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people. Every time the card is used a point is gained and children can save their points and trade them in for a variety of unique rewards. Every quarter one child is rewarded for building the highest number of SHOUT points and Carmen was the Winter Quarter Builder winner.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “Carmen built up her SHOUT points during October, November and December using her card mostly to hire library books but also to attend East Ayrshire’s SHOUT club at Gavin Hamilton Sports Centre.

“Carmen’s prize was for her and nine friends to have a kid’s party at Braehead Food’s Cook School Scotland. The day began with each person decorating their own Chef`s hat, and then assisting the kids’ chef, Heather to prepare the foods for their tasty menu, which consisted of homemade pork kebabs, chunky vegetable soup and fruit salad. Then it was the best part of the day – getting to taste their homemade foods!”

If you require any further information relating to the SHOUT card, please contact the Recreation Partnership Officer on 01563 576715 or log on to www.eac.eu/shout

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Qualified fitness instructor and Zumba instructor Sharon Mc Quillan, Health and Activity Motivator, from the CHIP team at Leisure Development regularly puts 120 people of all shapes, sizes and ages and fitness levels . . . → Read More: ZUMBA SENSATION]]> Head down to the Grand Hall on a Monday morning and take part in the latest exercise sensation – Zumba.

Qualified fitness instructor and Zumba instructor Sharon Mc Quillan, Health and Activity Motivator, from the CHIP team at Leisure Development regularly puts 120 people of all shapes, sizes and ages and fitness levels through a dance fitness session that makes everyone come back for more.

Sharon said: “Classes are great fun. Zumba is a fitness class that everyone can enjoy no matter your fitness level or age. We have people aged 18 to 81 and you can take the class at your own pace with no pressure to follow routines. It’s the way your body naturally moves that matters. There is a really fun and relaxed atmosphere within the class with everyone made to feel welcome to join in”.

Two classes run at 10.30 am and 11.30 am and cost a bargain price of £1.05. And because this class is run by the CHIP Team there is also a whole range of other health advice available to really help you make changes to your lifestyle.

If you want further information on the Zumba class or for advice on any other CHIP classes please call Sharon on 01563 578159

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New Sporting Futures at East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development section have organised a range of sporting activities for this Easter including athletics, basketball, football, gymnastics, judo, rugby, tennis and weightlifting.

Scotland’s biggest . . . → Read More: GET SPORTY AT EASTER]]> Lace up your running shoes, put on your shin guards, shoot for the stars or scrum down and give rugby a try.

New Sporting Futures at East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development section have organised a range of sporting activities for this Easter including athletics, basketball, football, gymnastics, judo, rugby, tennis and weightlifting.

Scotland’s biggest football opportunity, StreetSport Icon, also returns! In 2010 Kilmarnock Football Club took the 12 StreetSport Icon winners and gave them the experience of a life-time. Throughout the week-long experience they trained with the Kilmarnock first team, ate lunch with Kilmarnock players and were ball boys for the friendly tie against Spanish giants Real Vallodolid! Two of the winners showed sufficient talent to be invited to train with the Kilmarnock Under 19s, an unbelievable occasion for any aspiring football player.

For full details of activities please contact Leisure Development on 01563 576705 or log on to www.eac.eu/beactive to download your FREE guide.

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Easter Play-Times

Parents, carers and children aged 0 to 8 years can hop along to the indoor Play-Times events and enjoy taking part in activities including bouncy castles, face painting, messy arts, pre-5 . . . → Read More: HOP ALONG TO EGG-CITING EASTER PLAY EVENTS!]]> An Egg-citing programme of events for Easter will keep our youngest residents entertained thanks to EA Positive Play from Leisure Development.

Easter Play-Times

Parents, carers and children aged 0 to 8 years can hop along to the indoor Play-Times events and enjoy taking part in activities including bouncy castles, face painting, messy arts, pre-5 equipment, parachute games, badge-making, arts and crafts, run-around games AND new for this year, a best decorated egg competition.

Make time to play at Darvel Town Hall on Tuesday 5 April and Shortlees Community Centre on Thursday 7 April from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Remember your boiled egg for the competition.
Admission is £1.70 for the first child and 85p for any brothers or sisters. Booking is not required – just turn up on the day. Adult supervision and participation required at all times; any child not accompanied by an adult will not be allowed entry.
Bring along your child’s SHOUT card and build 1 SHOUT point.

Grounds 4 Play

Children aged 3 to 12 years and their parents or carers can learn to enjoy their local outdoor space and explore the world around them by taking part in water and mud slides, den building, water and sand play, natural crafts and free play activities such as hay bales, tyres and wood at the Grounds 4 Play events which are held in partnership with the East Ayrshire Community Play Forum.

The best bit is these events are totally free so roll along to Portland Park, Galston on Monday 11 April, Morton Park, Kilmaurs on Wednesday 13 April and Newlands Drive, Onthank on Thursday 14 April all from 1pm to 4pm.

Remember wellies, change of clothes, a towel and a boiled egg for decorating. Rolling events will take place no matter the weather.

Booking is not required – just turn up on the day. Children under 8 years old must be supervised by a responsible adult.
Bring along your SHOUT card and build 1 SHOUT point

For more information please contact Leisure Development on 01563 576705 or log on to www.eac.eu/beactive to download your FREE guide.

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Seven local primary schools participated in the round robin football festival which involved over 80 players and coaches. Third year pupils from the Academy were drafted in to assist with refereeing, score keeping . . . → Read More: CUMNOCK FOOTBALL FESTIVAL SUCCESS]]> Cumnock Academy was the venue for Football Festival fun thanks to an action packed competition organised by the Active Schools team.

Seven local primary schools participated in the round robin football festival which involved over 80 players and coaches. Third year pupils from the Academy were drafted in to assist with refereeing, score keeping and medal presentations.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “I was delighted to attend the festival which definitely benefitted from the bright sunshine! There was brilliant play between the teams and every player showed good sportsmanship.

“It was a very close competition but the winner’s medals went to Netherthird Primary School and the New Cumnock team were worthy runners up. My congratulations go to all the teams who took part and I would like to thank the organisers and volunteers who made this event such a success. Thanks also go to Barshare Primary dance troop who opened the festival with real enthusiasm and set a very positive tone for the day.”

The festival involved the following schools:

• Logan P.S
• Barshare P.S
• New Cumnock  P.S                                                              
• Catrine  P.S                           
• Drongan   P.S                           
• Netherthird P.S
• Greenmill P.S

Barshare Primary Dance Troop is an afterschool club which runs on a Tuesday and is open to all Primary 6 and 7 pupils. The troop is coached by Pauline Adams. 

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The Scottish Government is currently running the ‘Take Life On’ campaign which encourages children to take 60 minutes of physical activity each . . . → Read More: THE BIG PLAY DATE]]> Children from the Stewarton Learning Community made a date to have great fun this Valentine’s Day by getting their 60 minutes of daily exercise – and so did their parents and guardians!

The Scottish Government is currently running the ‘Take Life On’ campaign which encourages children to take 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Monday 14 February was nominated as the national ‘The Big Play Date’ with everyone encouraged to use this as a chance to make the effort to have some fun and promote activity as a lifelong habit.

Laura Wallace, Active Schools Coordinator, organised a Big Play Date at Stewarton Academy for all of the children from the Learning Community.

Councillor John MacKay, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing and local member for Annick said: “The national campaign ‘Take Life On’ tackles the very serious health issues that our facing Scotland as a whole. A very important part of the campaign is to promote the importance of daily exercise to children in the hope that this stays with them for life.”

Councillor Rose-Ann Cuninghame, local member for Annick said: “The Big Play Date encouraged children to take part in various activities including parachute games, tig, skipping, relay races and crazycatch – a new piece of equipment which helps children to develop hand-eye coordination. These activities all proved very popular and it was great to see the children with their parents and guardians all playing together.”

Councillor John McGhee, local member for Annick said: “This event gave the children 60 minutes of fun activity for the day but it is hoped that, as a result of enjoying playing together, that the parents and guardians who attended will be inspired to use some of these games to increase not only their children’s physical activity at home, but their own too. We all have a responsibility to improve our health and our children’s health for the future through healthy eating and regular exercise.”

The activities were thirsty work but thanks to Morrison’s, Kilmarnock, there was plenty of water on hand and all the children received some fruit to replace their energy in a healthy way.

At the end of the event parents and guardians provided some very positive feedback. They felt the event was very enjoyable for them and their children and most said that it would encourage them to play together more in the future. They said that it gave them some new ideas and that they would use these with their children at home.

Quotes from children and parents provided through evaluation forms:

“fun, fun, fun!!”
“I really enjoyed the fact that the adults joined in with all activities.”
“Great fun, look fwd to the next one.”
“It’s fun and a good workout without feeling like exercise”
“We’d love this to be done more often. The coaches were brilliant.”

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The CHAMPS club – Challenging, Health, Arts, Movement, Play and Sport – is a club which is run specifically . . . → Read More: CHRISTMAS PARTY FUN]]> The severe weather might have put a temporary halt to some Christmas fun for the Leisure Development Section’s CHAMPS, SOFA and DRAMA clubs but organisers pressed ahead with their annual Christmas events last week.

The CHAMPS club – Challenging, Health, Arts, Movement, Play and Sport – is a club which is run specifically for kids with additional support needs. It offers a relaxed, supportive environment for children and young people to try games, sports and arts activities. The kids, who have a wide range of abilities, had a ball at their Christmas party enjoying activities such as circus skills, bouncy castles, face painting and balloon modelling.

The SOFA club – Sporting Opportunities For All – is a dedicated sports club, where qualified coaches organise and deliver sports specific sessions for children with additional support needs. Kids learn new skills gradually before incorporating them into full games. Sports include football, basketball, BOCCIA, athletics and many more.

The SOFA club celebrated by holding a parents night. Parents came along to the club and got fully involved in some of the sports and games that the kids had been learning over the past few months. The evening was a great success with everyone having lots of fun. It also gave the parents a good insight into how their kids are supported in learning new skills and developing these into games. Parents got a chance to take part in Boccia and Ten Pin Bowling and giving them the opportunity to learn new skills along with their kids. All the young people were presented with a certificate to mark their progress.

The DRAMA club is an integrated club which is available to kids with additional support needs and mainstream kids. The integrated DRAMA club provides an introduction to drama, self expression and acting skills. The activities are delivered in a fun informal style allowing the kids to grow in confidence each week, improving on speech, body language and social skills.

The integrated DRAMA club held their annual Christmas Performance on Tuesday 8 February. This year’s performance was based on the theme of ‘The Wizard of Oz’. All kids had their own role and had spent weeks prior to the show, rehearsing lines and making costumes. All their hard work paid off and the show was a great success! Positive feedback was received from parents, guardians and other guests at the performance and all ticket money was donated to the Christmas ‘Cash for Kids’ appeal.

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Just 4 Fun will encourage youngsters to join boredom busting after school clubs but will also encourage members of the community to volunteer at their local club.

The Association’s chairperson, Thomas Ho said: “Chinese communities across the world will be holding celebrations and we . . . → Read More: KILMARNOCK TO CELEBRATE CHINESE NEW YEAR]]> KULOC, the Kilmarnock and pan-Ayrshire Chinese Community Association, will be celebrating its own New Year in Kilmarnock on Sunday 13 February. A parade with dragons and lion dancers will set off from The Cross at 12 noon.

The Association’s chairperson, Thomas Ho said: “Chinese communities across the world will be holding celebrations and we think it is only fitting that Kilmarnock is invited to join us in welcoming in the Year of the Rabbit.”

Provost Stephanie Young added: “These local celebrations of the Chinese New Year are always eagerly anticipated and I’m sure it will once again be a great event for everyone involved. KULOC is to be congratulated for the excellent work it does in our local communities and I wish everyone involved a successful and prosperous New Year.”

This will be an opportunity for local people to see the Kuloc Association’s hugely successful Lion Dance Team and Band which are invited to events all across Scotland. The association is based in Portland Street in Kilmarnock and provides interpreting and advocacy services in addition to running English language classes, a Chinese school and martial arts instruction.

The event will be truly multicultural with pupils from Park School and Grange Academy taking a major part with their performance the Dragon Dance.

Once more the dragons will be awoken in a short ceremony at The Cross and firecrackers will sound off to chase away any bad spirits.

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Rock-it Ball, which was invented in 2005, is a combination of lacrosse and dodgeball. It is a fast moving, exciting game which is growing steadily throughout the country. Lee Watson, who is an . . . → Read More: STEWARTON KIDS HAVE A BALL WITH ROCK-IT BALL]]> Youngsters from the Stewarton Learning Community have been having a ball learning a new sport thanks to the Active Schools team.

Rock-it Ball, which was invented in 2005, is a combination of lacrosse and dodgeball. It is a fast moving, exciting game which is growing steadily throughout the country. Lee Watson, who is an Active Schools volunteer, worked very hard to bring the sport to our area. He was previously employed as a Physical Activity Assistant – a 6 month post funded through the Future Jobs Fund initiative – in all the primary schools in the Learning Community helping with PE classes and taking after school clubs.

While in post Lee applied for funding through the Sport UnLtd Fund, a Comic Relief initiative aimed at bringing communities together through sport. Lee’s application was successful and he secured a £1000 grant for the Rock-it Ball project, buying the equipment for the clubs and paying to host a Level 2 training course for senior pupils, university students and parent volunteers who are working hard to make this project a success.

Councillor John MacKay, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “I was delighted to attend a Rock-it Ball session and watch the kids in action. They were so enthusiastic and really loved this exciting sport. Our Active Schools team has real vision. They are always on the lookout for new activities to keep our young people healthy and thanks to Laura Wallace, Active Schools Coordinator and Lee Watson; our youngsters are some of the first in Scotland to try this sport. They are also very well supported by volunteers and thanks to senior pupils, students and parents, who went through a detailed coaching course, the project was been rolled out to after school clubs within the Stewarton learning partnership.”

Councillor Rose-Ann Cuninghame said: “As a former lacrosse player I was very sad not to be able to attend this first Rock-it Ball at Lainshaw – Lacrosse was a game which originated in the Native Americans lands played by men but was brought to this country in the late 19th Century and introduced into Schools for Young Ladies as the ball is moved by being either carried in the player’s net or thrown and tackling is down shoulder high or higher and was deemed much better for deportment than hockey played at ground level! I very much hope to attend a future learning session and am delighted that it is proving so popular and perhaps will available to more pupils.”

Councillor John McGhee, local member for Annick said: “I was sorry to have missed this event, which is another fine example of the work performed by the Active Schools Team and appreciated by volunteers and pupils alike.”

The Rock-it Ball project will cumulate in a festival for all schools during the Easter holidays.

Rock-it-Ball is just the latest project that is taking place in East Ayrshire through Active Schools. For more information about what is happening in your child’s school, or if you are interested in volunteering at any clubs, please visit www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/activeschools

Guiding the enchanted audience along Tam’s infamous route from Ayr to Alloway, using maps . . . → Read More: TAM O’SHANTER – THE STORY BEHIND THE TALE]]> It was a Burns celebration with a difference last week as an audience gathered at the Burns Monument Centre in Kilmarnock to be transported back in time to witness the exploits of one of Burns’ most famous characters, Tam o’Shanter.

Guiding the enchanted audience along Tam’s infamous route from Ayr to Alloway, using maps from the 1700s, was Jim Thomson, author of ‘In and Out of Tam o’ Shanter’. As listeners eagerly followed Tam’s journey, Jim used photographs of the local landmarks mentioned along the way to bring his story to life. The audience was enthralled as he described the manic scenes at old Alloway Kirk before explaining the story behind each object on the ‘haly table’. Even those who felt they knew the poem well were intrigued to discover Tam o’ Shanter was such a sinister tale of its time.

Each interpretation highlighted the depth of Jim Thomson’s knowledge with many audience members taking the opportunity to find out more during the book signing that followed the presentation.

Leader of East Ayrshire Council, Councillor Douglas Reid: “It was an honour to welcome Jim Thomson to the Burns Monument Centre to celebrate Burns Night. Jim’s talk was fascinating and provided a great insight into the social context of life in the 18th Century. His passion for the subject was clear to see, and the audience was transfixed from start to finish.”

For more information on The Burns Monument Centre please visit www.burnsmonumentcentre.co.uk

For further details on the book ‘In and Out of Tam o’ Shanter’ please visit www.jamesmthomson.co.uk

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The Partnership seeks to provide a united framework for developing athletics across the authority with the guiding principle that partnership working can achieve more for our . . . → Read More: ATHLETICS PARTNERSHIP AGM]]> East Ayrshire Athletics Partnership is holding its Annual General Meeting on Monday 7 February and is inviting members of the community to come along and have their say!

The Partnership seeks to provide a united framework for developing athletics across the authority with the guiding principle that partnership working can achieve more for our local communities.

If athletics is important to you and you want the opportunity to make a difference then this is the perfect opportunity to have your say. The AGM will take place at St Joseph’s Academy library, Grassyards Roads, Kilmarnock at 7pm on Monday 7 February.

For further information please contact: 01563 576713

Leisure Development is always on the lookout for motivated and enthusiastic people to help with their CATCH walking groups – maybe Lisa’s story will inspire you to pick up and the phone and . . . → Read More: WHY NOT MAKE VOLUNTEERING YOUR NEW YEAR RESOLUTION]]> Volunteering is a great way to get out and about, meet new people and help those in need within our communities.

Leisure Development is always on the lookout for motivated and enthusiastic people to help with their CATCH walking groups – maybe Lisa’s story will inspire you to pick up and the phone and start a whole new chapter in your life!

Lisa’s Story:

“Living in a rural part of East Ayrshire we have very few amenities apart from glorious countryside. After not being able to carry on in full time employment, I found myself feeling isolated and disheartened at the few opportunities available to our village. After seeing a flyer for the CATCH walking group in a local council office, I contacted them and set up a small public meeting to see if anyone would be interested. We had a good response and I was willing to train as a volunteer walk leader. We have about 25 members of our walking group, but usually get around half a dozen or so per week. Bearing in mind the village has only about 200 residents, we feel this is great.

“Volunteering like this opens many doors to enhancing your life and the lives of those around you. It creates community cohesion and helps to bridge barriers. We have centred our walks round the local community centre and enjoy a cuppa and a chat for an hour after the walk. Volunteering to do anything within a community setting whether it be in a tiny rural and isolated village such as ours, or in a large town is rewarding on so many levels, not just for the volunteer, but also to those whose lives you can affect for the better, both mentally and physically. For me, volunteering with CATCH has led to much more involvement in my community and with local charities. No matter what your circumstances, a few hours per week are easy to lose in front of the TV, and that is all it takes to get up and do something that will make a difference. I always say that if I can do it, then anyone can do it!”

If you would like to find out more about the volunteering opportunities within Leisure Development, please contact: Faye Forsyth, Walking Development Officer on 01563 576707 or by email at faye.forsyth@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

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Leisure Development’s CHIP team will be on hand to carry out free health checks consisting of a body composition . . . → Read More: VISIONS OPEN DAY]]> The New Year is the perfect time to get in shape! To help you kick-start a new healthier routine Visions Leisure Centre is holding an Open Day on Thursday 13 January between 10am and 2pm.

Leisure Development’s CHIP team will be on hand to carry out free health checks consisting of a body composition analysis and blood pressure check. The team will also be offering advice on healthy eating, stopping smoking, increasing your exercise levels and much more.

If you are already a client of the Lifestyle Referral Scheme, you will also have the opportunity to collect your personalised CHIP Activity Card. The CHIP Activity Card offers you incentives for regular use, great local discounts and entry to a regular prize draw.

For more information please contact the CHIP team on 01563 576972.

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The Programme helps children aged 7 – 13 and families manage their weight better and lead healthier lives. It was developed by child health experts and research shows . . . → Read More: EAST AYRSHIRE HELPS TO ‘MEND’ HEALTH OF LOCAL YOUNG PEOPLE]]> Young people who recently completed the seventh MEND programme (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do It) celebrated with parents and carers at the Leisure Development Section’s graduation event.

The Programme helps children aged 7 – 13 and families manage their weight better and lead healthier lives. It was developed by child health experts and research shows it really works. With the support of their parents or carers, children learn how to improve their health, fitness and the way they feel about their bodies.

Over 50 people attended the graduation ceremony with guests from NHS Ayrshire & Arran, the Council along with family and friends. Councillor Kathy Morrice, Council Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “Every time I meet MEND children I am left amazed and inspired by their stories and the achievements of their whole families. I always look forward to hearing about the positive changes that occur in their lives – not just physically – but also in confidence and self esteem. It is a wonderful programme and I can’t praise it highly enough.”

Once children complete the 10 week programme they are welcomed into the MEND Graduate family, where the Graduates and their sibling can attend and enjoy a variety of fun physical activity games which are delivered by MEND parent volunteers, at the graduate club. The Graduates have also formed an editorial team and are now producing a regular newsletter.

Councillor Morrice praised the young people saying: “I was particularly interested to hear about the developments that have happened within the programme over the past few months. The MEND editorial team have done a fantastic job producing not one but two outstanding newsletters. The Young Leadership scheme is going from strength to strength with a number of young people demonstrating skills and commitment that will hopefully lead to them becoming Leisure Development employees of the future. Finally I am encouraged by the fact that a number of graduate parents are now setting up a committee and looking towards charitable status – to enable continued success and development of the graduate programme.”

Due to the success of previous MEND programmes, East Ayrshire Leisure Development’s Recreation Partnership Service is running its eighth programme starting January 2011. All sessions are free but spaces are limited.

For more information on the MEND programme or if you are interested in participating, please contact Lesley Fowler, Recreation Partnership Officer on 01563 576684 or Lesley.fowler@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.

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Under the watchful eye of Active Schools Coordinator Laura Wallace, the children were split into groups led by a senior pupil from Stewarton . . . → Read More: FESTIVAL OF FUN]]> Fun was the order of the day at Stewarton Academy when over one hundred Primary One children from Kilmaurs, Lainshaw and Nether Robertland Primaries took part in a Festival of Sport.

Under the watchful eye of Active Schools Coordinator Laura Wallace, the children were split into groups led by a senior pupil from Stewarton Academy. The small groups then moved round an action packed circuit.

Councillor John MacKay, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “This was a great opportunity for our local primary schools to enjoy an action packed morning at Stewarton Academy. The event was led by the Active Schools team and they were extremely well supported by students from the Scottish Agricultural College and senior pupils from the Academy. The stations included parachute games, football, rugby, relay races, an obstacle course, circle games and a target throw. The kids had a fantastic day and I would like to thank Laura and her team for their hard work and infectious enthusiasm for sport.”

Councillor Rose-Ann Cuninghame, local member for Annick said: “This was a fantastic event and a wonderful way to spend a very cold morning. The children were so enthusiastic and it took a huge amount of energy for the adults to keep up with them. Laura and her team did a great job and I am sure that the little ones went home with great stories to tell about their very exciting visit to the academy.”

Councillor John McGhee, local member for Annick said: “I was really pleased to spend a morning at Stewarton Academy chatting with the organisers of this brilliant event. There is no doubt that the Active School programme has long term benefits to the health of our children and to say that they enjoyed the event is an understatement – the level of enthusiasm was quite contagious.”

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Active Schools Coordinator Andrew Black, in partnership with teachers from the school, applied for funding from Awards for All for the playground makeover. The playground was resurfaced about two years ago but there was nothing on the surface which encouraged the . . . → Read More: CROSSHOUSE GET AN ACTIVE SCHOOLS MAKEOVER]]> Children at Crosshouse Primary have been getting active thanks to a playground makeover.

Active Schools Coordinator Andrew Black, in partnership with teachers from the school, applied for funding from Awards for All for the playground makeover. The playground was resurfaced about two years ago but there was nothing on the surface which encouraged the children to take part in physical activity during break times.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “Our Active Schools Coordinators play an important role in keeping our young people fit and healthy. It was fantastic to view the improvements to the playground at Crosshouse Primary and to watch the children participate so enthusiastically in all the games now on offer.”

Councillors Hugh Ross and Jim Roberts, Spokespersons for Promoting Lifelong Learning said: “The playground’s makeover has had a very positive impact on the school and on the children who are really enjoying the new games. The teachers from Crosshouse have been trained on how to best utilise the playground and have been using the new design to highlight the importance of outdoor physical activity.”

Crosshouse Primary would like to get their pupils even more active and are seeking parent helpers. If you could spare a couple of hours please contact the Active Schools team on 01563 524784.

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Barr Ltd has been appointed to build the fantastic new centre which will include a games hall, dance studio, fitness room, community room and changing rooms. There will also be a full sized floodlit grass pitch, adjacent to the new centre . . . → Read More: STEWARTON SPORTS CENTRE PROJECT IS UP AND RUNNING]]> A contractor has now been appointed to build the new Stewarton Sports Centre.

Barr Ltd has been appointed to build the fantastic new centre which will include a games hall, dance studio, fitness room, community room and changing rooms. There will also be a full sized floodlit grass pitch, adjacent to the new centre and ample car parking for the facility. Work will start on site early next year.

Councillor John MacKay, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing, who was joined at the site of the new centre by Council Leader, Councillor Douglas Reid; local members, Councillors Rose-Ann Cuninghame and John McGhee and Mr Pollock and Mr Fulton from Stewarton Community Council, said: “I am delighted that Barr Ltd has been appointed to build the new Stewarton sports centre.

“This facility will have a very positive impact on the whole town. It will be well used by our local schools and I know that our local football teams are really looking forward to utilising all the centre has to offer.”

Barclay Chalmers, Managing Director for Barr Construction, said: “The new Stewarton sports centre will provide a valuable recreational resource for the local community.

“Having worked with East Ayrshire Council for many years, we were delighted to have secured a contract which allowed us to build on our long-standing working relationship. As a company founded in Ayrshire, we were also particularly pleased to have been able to secure jobs in the area for local people and are hopeful that further opportunities will allow us to do so again in the future.”

The building was designed by East Ayrshire Council’s Garry Blackwood with Barr Limited taking design responsibility for key structural elements of the works to produce the functionality and positive aesthetic of the building.

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Councillor Reid said: “This was a fantastic event which was enjoyed by adults and children alike – my daughter of Evie and I had a brilliant . . . → Read More: SPOT THE DOG’S 30TH BIRTHDAY PARTY AT THE DICK INSTITUTE]]> Councillors Douglas Reid and Kathy Morrice joined more than 100 children and adults for the Imprint Book Festival’s Spot the Dog 30th birthday party at the Dick Institute.

Councillor Reid said: “This was a fantastic event which was enjoyed by adults and children alike – my daughter of Evie and I had a brilliant time. On the day there were two sessions of fun, games, books and reading and it was wonderful to involve some of our youngest, and most enthusiastic, residents in the Imprint Festival.”

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Councillor Douglas Reid closed the very successful festival with a promise of more to come in the future. He said: . . . → Read More: IMPRINT FINALE AT THE BURNS MONUMENT CENTRE]]> William McIlvanney, Rab Wilson, Robin Laing and Ian Buxton provided a rousing send off for Imprint 2010. Readings, poems, songs, whisky and laughter were the theme for the night at the Burns Monument Centre.

Councillor Douglas Reid closed the very successful festival with a promise of more to come in the future. He said: “The Imprint finale encompassed all the elements that made this year’s festival so special – humour, warmth and unbridled talent!

“Highlights of the evening were ‘The Piper of Auchinleck’ from Rab Wilson and a hilarious tribute to A’bunadh whisky from Robin Laing. William McIlvanney got the evening off to a great start with readings from his prose, including ‘the pint of no return’ a tribute to the memory of some of the colourful cronies inhabiting the licensed premises of Kilmarnock, and Ian Buxton rounded off a fine night’s entertainment with tastings and commentary on four malt whiskies recommended in his excellent book ‘101 Whiskies to try before you die’. This was a very memorable end to a fine Imprint Festival and I can’t wait till next year!”

Over 200 dedicated fundraisers of all ages and abilities from took part in the national event, choosing a 1, 3 or 6 mile challenge. More importantly, participants invested time . . . → Read More: PINK, SPOTTY, SPORTY AND HAIRY – LEISURE DO IT ALL FOR CHARITY]]> Earlier this year, East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development Services were proud to host Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile Challenge at Kilmarnock’s Dean Castle Country Park.

Over 200 dedicated fundraisers of all ages and abilities from took part in the national event, choosing a 1, 3 or 6 mile challenge. More importantly, participants invested time and effort into raising funds to help disadvantaged people, both at home in the UK and across the world’s poorest countries.

The sponsorship money has now been counted, checked and verified and the organisers at Sports Relief are now able to share the final fundraising total for The Kilmarnock Mile… East Ayrshire’s fantastic event raised a whopping £ 5,778.65 and every single penny of it will be spent by Comic Relief to help disadvantaged people turn their lives around.

East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development Services along with the organisers at Sports Relief would like to pass on our heartfelt thanks to every single person that helped raise money for the worthwhile cause.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “The generosity of East Ayrshire has been outstanding in 2010 with Leisure Development raising over £11,700 through Ruby’s 10K Fun Run and Family Fun Day, Sport Relief, Cash for Kids, the Haiti Appeal, Genes for Jeans day, Wear it Pink and Children in Need.

“More money will be raised by end of November with a few hairy Leisure Development men sporting moustaches for Movember – the charity raising funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer. If you would like to sponsor the guys and their facial furniture then please visit http://uk.movember.com/donate/find-team/ and look for them under the CHIP team.”

For further information please contact Leisure Development on 01563 576705.

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Nominations are currently being sought for the Community Planning Awards 2011 which recognise the commitment and contribution of community and voluntary groups and individuals, . . . → Read More: COMMUNITY PLANNING AWARDS 2011 – NOMINATE YOUR LOCAL HEROES]]> East Ayrshire Community Planning Partnership needs your help to identify the groups and individuals who are actively involved in making a real difference to the lives of East Ayrshire’s residents.

Nominations are currently being sought for the Community Planning Awards 2011 which recognise the commitment and contribution of community and voluntary groups and individuals, who are undertaking remarkable work within their communities.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Chair of East Ayrshire Community Planning Partnership said: “Community Planning Partners first hosted an Awards Ceremony in March 2009. We were overwhelmed by the quality of the nominations received and honoured to be able to meet and celebrate the achievements of the shortlisted finalists and winners. We look forward to once again receiving many nominations in each of the five categories and honouring the winners at the Awards Ceremony in March 2011.”

Award categories include:

Promoting Lifelong Learning – The Promoting Lifelong Learning Award seeks to recognise groups or individuals whose work encourages the improvement of education/skills attainment and achievement, increasing the skills base of the local workforce and ensuring our young people are properly prepared for the world of work.

Delivering Community Regeneration – Nominations in this category should be made for groups or individuals involved in increasing the capacity of the local workforce, promoting economic and community regeneration and protecting and sustaining our environment.

Improving Community Safety – This award seeks to recognise those groups or individuals whose activities contribute to improving community safety in neighbourhoods and homes, and protecting our most vulnerable individuals and families.

Improving Health and Wellbeing – Improving Health and Wellbeing Award nominations should recognise groups or individuals whose activities contribute to improving physical and mental health, wellbeing and care, and reducing health inequalities.

Partnership Award – Partnership Award nominations should recognise groups or individuals who have demonstrated notable innovation or excellence in their field.

Nomination forms can be found online at www.eastayrshirecommunityplan.org and at your local library or local council office. Alternatively, you can contact the Community Planning and Partnership Unit on 01290 428340.

The deadline for nominations is Friday 10 December 2010.

The centre houses a health centre, spectacular user-friendly library and for the first time in Crosshouse history, a local office. This means that members of the local community can see a doctor, borrow . . . → Read More: CROSSHOUSE AREA CENTRE OFFICIALLY OPENED]]> The impressive new Crosshouse Area Centre has been officially opened by Richard Jeffrey, Australian Honorary Consul from the Australian High Commission.

The centre houses a health centre, spectacular user-friendly library and for the first time in Crosshouse history, a local office. This means that members of the local community can see a doctor, borrow a book and enquire about Council services all within the same building.

Councillor Douglas Reid, who invited friend of the village Mr Jeffrey to open the new centre, including the new Andrew Fisher Library, said: “I was delighted to welcome Mr Jeffrey back to Crosshouse. The village was home to former Australian Prime Minister Andrew Fisher, a very important figure in Australian history, and the Australian High Commission has shown real interest in the village over the years. It seemed fitting that the official opening was performed by Mr Jeffrey on behalf of the High Commission.

“The area centre combines innovative design and a contemporary approach to accessing public services. The one stop shop model has proved to be a very successful way of sharing services with our Community Planning Partners within NHS Ayrshire & Arran and it is clear that the people of Crosshouse are already benefitting from this approach. I would like to take this opportunity to thank John McHarg and Lex Mackenzie, Chair and Vice Chair of Crosshouse Community Council, and the other Local Members, for their positive involvement throughout this project.”

Depute Provost John Campbell added: “It was wonderful to have Mr Jeffrey back in Crosshouse to perform the official opening. The area centre is already making a positive difference to the community – it is a very impressive facility which is built on the very strong foundation of partnership working.”

Mandy Yule, Health Care Director for Integrated Care and Partner Services said: “This centre is another example of partnership working to benefit the health of local people in their communities by bringing services together in a fantastic new facility.”

Further information

Library Opening Hours:
Monday 2pm – 5pm / 6pm – 8pm
Tuesday 2pm – 5pm
Wednesday 2pm – 5pm
Thursday 10am – 1pm
Friday 2pm – 5pm / 6pm – 8pm
Saturday 10am – 1pm

Telephone: 01563 503290

Crosshouse Local Office

The Crosshouse Local Office is part of a network of offices acting as a Single Contact Centre. This means that if you phone Crosshouse and the phones are busy you will be transferred to the nearest local office which will answer your query.
Telephone: 0845 724 0000/ Text phone: 01563 503294

Opening Hours:
Monday 2.15pm – 4.45pm
Tuesday 2.15pm – 4.45pm
Wednesday 2.15pm – 4.45pm
Thursday 10.15am – 12.45pm
Friday 2.15pm – 4.45pm

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The twenty minute spectacular display was provided by one of the UK’s premier pyrotechnic display teams – Reaction Fireworks and was fully choreographed to music from the X Factor, Britain’s Got Talent, Fame Academy . . . → Read More: FIREWORKS NIGHT IS INCREDIBLE SUCCESS!]]> 35,000 people converged on the Kay Park on Friday night and were wowed by the Council’s annual fireworks display.

The twenty minute spectacular display was provided by one of the UK’s premier pyrotechnic display teams – Reaction Fireworks and was fully choreographed to music from the X Factor, Britain’s Got Talent, Fame Academy and Pop Idol.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council said: “This was an incredible event. The fireworks were absolutely breath taking and young and old were mesmerised by the display. I am very pleased to announce that we raised our £7,000 target from donations from the crowd, thank you to everyone who donated. I would also like to say a very special thank you to our main sponsors, Klin Homes, West Sound Radio and Strathclyde Fire and Rescue – their support was very much appreciated by the whole of Kilmarnock.”

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “A crowd of 35,000 people in the Kay Park is just fantastic. I am very pleased that our communities have chosen to support our fireworks display. Fireworks are magical but can be very dangerous. Attending an organised display is the safest way for the whole family to enjoy Guy Fawkes Night and I would like to thank all our employees who worked incredibly hard to make this event a success.”

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Scottish Cancer Support offers support to cancer sufferers and their families. The Charity was started in 2002 and its aim was simple – to help the . . . → Read More: WALKERS RAISE MONEY FOR SCOTTISH CANCER SUPPORT]]> Walkers who took part in this year’s River Ayr Way Challenge met at Catrine Voes recently to present sponsor money to their chosen charity – Scottish Cancer Support.

Scottish Cancer Support offers support to cancer sufferers and their families. The Charity was started in 2002 and its aim was simple – to help the 26,000 children, men and women who are sadly diagnosed with cancer in Scotland each year. The River Ayrshire Way Challenge fundraisers have raised £1300 for the charity so far with donations still coming in.

Depute Provost John Campbell who attended the cheque presentation said: “I would like to thank all the teams and individuals who took part in the challenge and have raised such a huge amount for this very worthwhile charity. The fundraisers were:

The Blister Bunch – Linda Donald, Brenda Hood, Casey Mitchell and Allison Devaney
The Tattie Howkers – Wendy Copeland and John Shaw
Team SCS – Jim Draper, John McCready and Diane Limond
The Freaky Mates – Ian Edgar and Michael Cruasdale
Wincia Dabrowski

“I was also delighted to present John McCready with a plaque for raising the most sponsor money – a fantastic £600.”

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration said: “The River Ayr Way Challenge is a fantastic event which encourages people to take an interest in our beautiful environment. However being able to raise money for such a worthwhile charity is an added bonus.”

Entries for the 2011 Challenge will open again in January 2011. Visit www.theriverayrway.org for more information.

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Cultural Co-ordinator Helen Duncan helped the youngsters explore our rich heritage through medieval music and dance; exploring behind the scenes at the museum; . . . → Read More: HERITAGE SCHOOL BRINGS HISTORY TO LIFE]]> History was brought to life at Dean Castle during the October break when local youngsters took the opportunity to step back in time and uncover the exciting history of our town.

Cultural Co-ordinator Helen Duncan helped the youngsters explore our rich heritage through medieval music and dance; exploring behind the scenes at the museum; creating imaginative artwork and crossing swords with the bold Sir Hugo!

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Promoting Lifelong Learning participated enthusiastically in the archery challenge within the castle courtyard. He said: “The heritage school is a fantastic experience for our young people. By engaging them in interesting and motivating activities they are learning in a fun way about Kilmarnock’s proud history.”

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration said: “The Heritage School is an important part of an educational outreach programme for the Kilmarnock Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme/ Townscape Heritage Initiative. The programme was developed in partnership with the Creative Minds team, focusing on finding innovative ways of encouraging young people to engage with their local environment and learn about their heritage.

“The Heritage School was a very successful project which was thoroughly enjoyed by all our young participants.”

Primary 4 -7 children from Kilmarnock attended the free Heritage School, which was funded by the Council, Historic Scotland and the Heritage Lottery Fund and organised by our Creative Minds Team in partnership with the Arts and Museums Team.

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The event, which is very well supported locally, is organised annually by the Council’s Leisure Development section and the Kilmarnock Harriers at Dean Castle Country Park. Even though the . . . → Read More: HOSPICE RECEIVES RUBY CHEQUE]]> The Ayrshire Hospice were handed a cheque for £4473.63 thanks to the fundraising efforts of Ruby’s Ayrshire Hospice 5k Fun Run and Family Fun Day!

The event, which is very well supported locally, is organised annually by the Council’s Leisure Development section and the Kilmarnock Harriers at Dean Castle Country Park. Even though the weather was poor this year there was still a fantastic turn out and the energetic fundraisers still managed to enjoy the run despite the rain.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “Ruby’s 5K and Family Fun Day is a really enjoyable day for runners and families while supporting a very worthwhile cause. Its success would not be possible without the commitment of local people and companies such as Greggs who are great supporters of the event.”

East Ayrshire’s Health Development Officer, Kate Todd; Councillor Morrice and a Greggs representative, presented the cheque to Margaret Murray, Chairwoman of Kilmarnock Friends of the Hospice.

If you would like further information or would like to be a sponsor of Ruby’s 5K and Family Fun Day please contact Leisure Development on 01563 576705.

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This year’s theme, ‘Exhibition Mission’, focused on outdoor art activities promoting the space available within the playground that can enable children to truly express themselves, in ways that . . . → Read More: EXHIBITION MISSION]]> National School Grounds Week took place within East Ayrshire last month and some 2000 primary school pupils and 100 pupils from special schools/units took part.

This year’s theme, ‘Exhibition Mission’, focused on outdoor art activities promoting the space available within the playground that can enable children to truly express themselves, in ways that aren’t possible in the confines of the classroom. Each school participated in practical outdoor sessions and were provided with an ‘Exhibition Mission’ information booklet and games ideas.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: “The National School Grounds Week initiative through Grounds for Learning is delivered by the EA Positive Play team and encourages teachers and their classes to use their school playgrounds more positively.

“All schools also have the opportunity to take part in the EA Positive Play, Playground Design Competition and the winning entry will be painted onto the school’s playground.”

For further information please contact Leisure Development on 01563 576705.

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