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 Single East Ayrshire Register for Community Housing – SEARCH – is a partnership between the Council, Atrium . . . → Read More: Housing search made easier]]> A new Common Housing Register is set to be introduced shortly by East Ayrshire Council and locally based Registered Social Landlords which will simplify the process of applying for social rented housing within East Ayrshire.

The Single East Ayrshire Register for Community Housing – SEARCH – is a partnership between the Council, Atrium Homes, Cunninghame Housing Association, Irvine Housing Association and Shire Housing Association. The new register will enable people to apply for housing with any of the partners by filling in just one application form. Once applicants are registered with SEARCH, they will become eligible for properties becoming available within each of the partners’ housing stock.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration said: “SEARCH is a great step forward and will greatly improve the application process for local people. We are in the process of writing to all the people on our existing waiting lists to let them know about the register and asking them to provide us with some further information. SEARCH will be launched once this process has been completed by all partners. We anticipate that this will be completed by April and at this point we will write to everyone again to let them know they are on the new register.”

For further information contact your local housing office or the Council’s Housing Register Team on 01563 554821.

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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In an effort to become more ‘economically aware’, youngsters at Kilmaurs Primary recently set up their own in-school Credit Union (CU) in partnership with East Ayrshire Credit Union.

Depute Headteacher . . . → Read More: All credit to young school savers]]> In these days of economic recession, it’s never too soon to learn about managing money – even if it is only your pocket money.

In an effort to become more ‘economically aware’, youngsters at Kilmaurs Primary recently set up their own in-school Credit Union (CU) in partnership with East Ayrshire Credit Union.

Depute Headteacher Marianne Bradley said: “Our Credit Union will allow pupils to save money in an ethical way through a financial co-operative, while developing an understanding of financial transactions”.

To launch the savings plan, the P6 class led a whole school get-together for pupils and staff. They performed a short play about the benefits of saving and then the children were challenged to create a name and logo for their Union, while younger classmates designed books containing ideas about things pupils could save for.

Winning name was Kilmaurs Cool Cash Club, chosen by Robyn Morton and Jade Gillingham.

Marianne Bradley said: “Last year, all pupils participated in a financial education week where they took part in money management activities. We wanted to build on what the children have been learning since then, to promote economic awareness”.

Collections take place in school on Friday mornings. P6 pupils, who have been trained in book keeping and record keeping, are responsible for the collection point each week, supervised by Principal Teacher Mary Cotton. There was keen competition for the jobs – youngsters completed application forms and were interviewed as part of the selection process for the important posts.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This innovative scheme will benefit pupils in more ways than just saving money.

“They are learning to work together as a team and to develop organisational skills, responsibility and involvement within the wider community. The Credit Union will help make them more aware of the importance of budgeting and having responsible attitudes to finance, as well as developing their numeracy skills in a real-life context”.

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

The week aims to raise awareness of equality and diversity issues within East Ayrshire and all of the events, some of which . . . → Read More: Equalities Week is on its way!]]> Cycling, food tasting, talent shows and a gypsy traveller awareness session are just some of the events taking place across East Ayrshire from 3-10 March as part of East Ayrshire Equality Week.

The week aims to raise awareness of equality and diversity issues within East Ayrshire and all of the events, some of which have been organised by the Council and Community Planning partners and others by national agencies and community groups, are free to attend.

A ‘Cycling for All’ event will kick start the week on Saturday 3 March at St Joseph’s Academy in Kilmarnock from 9.30am to 12.30pm. This will give people the opportunity to take part in a leisurely 6 mile cycle, or more enthusiastic cyclists can enjoy a longer 12 mile journey. There will also be a Fun Skills course which is suitable for all the family.

Rounding off the week’s events on Saturday 10 March will be a Multi-Cultural event, again at St Joseph’s, where communities can come together to celebrate the diversity that exists within East Ayrshire. From 10.30am to 2.00pm there’ll be live entertainment, food tasting from around the world, sporting events, information stalls, henna painting, card making and even a crèche for the little ones.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Spokesperson for Equalities within the Council, said: “The Council and its partners, including NHS Ayrshire and Arran, Strathclyde Police and Strathclyde Fire and Rescue, place equality at the heart of everything we do and are committed to ensuring equality of opportunity and social inclusion. The week really does contain something for everyone, from ‘Dads in Play’ events which will encourage dads and their children to experience interactive activities, to sign language and family history workshops, Bookbug sessions for children and Adult Disability Sports Club events.

“I would encourage anyone who lives in East Ayrshire to log on to http://bookings.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/equalityweek2012 to book a place at an event or call Alyia Zaheed, Equality and Diversity Officer on 01563 576244 for more information.”

The Council is grateful for the funding which has been provided through the Awards for All grant programme which has helped greatly with the organisation of Equality Week.

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The competition invited nominations from all over the country in a quest to locate Scotland’s most deserving public structure for a free metal make-over. Dozens of entries flooded . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock Foregate sculpture crowned Brighten Scotland champ]]> The sculpture which graces Kilmarnock’s Foregate car park has sped ahead of the competition and bagged the top prize in the hit nationwide contest, Brighten Scotland.

The competition invited nominations from all over the country in a quest to locate Scotland’s most deserving public structure for a free metal make-over. Dozens of entries flooded in from around Scotland, vying for the judges’ attention, but the sculpture adorning Kilmarnock’s multi-storey car park has come out top and scooped the colourful prize.

Over the next few weeks, the car park’s gable artwork will be taken down and transformed using Colourgalv– a fusion of traditional hot-dip galvanizing and powder colour coating – to give a bright finish capable of fending off the Ayrshire elements for up to a century. The colour scheme will be decided by East Ayrshire Council and the revamped centrepiece will be unveiled in due course.

The sculpture made its debut on the car park in the 1990s and remains in good condition thanks to the previous galvanized coating, but the grey finish makes it almost impossible for passers-by to pick out the impressive detail of the piece.

Geoff Crowley, Managing Director of Highland Galvanizers & Colour Coaters said: “This winning structure perfectly demonstrates the philosophy behind Brighten Scotland.

“The mounted sculpture is a beautiful piece of art but blends into its surroundings instead of standing out.

“Giving the artwork a colour coating will draw attention to the detail of the sculpture and breathe new life into Kilmarnock’s main shopping area.

“The Highland team is very much looking forward to transforming Kilmarnock’s winning structure and showing local residents and visitors to the town just how much difference a little colour can make to our surroundings.”

The judging panel was faced with a very strong shortlist but felt the artwork in Kilmarnock presented a great opportunity to brighten up the built environment and highlight a hidden artistic gem.

Other structures to make the shortlist included seating in Gordon Park in Ellon in Aberdeenshire, a sculpture at Kildonan Museum on South Uist, a set of park benches in Cunningham-Watt park in Stewarton, fencing around the Robert Burns statue in Paisley’s Fountain Park and the gates to Duns Park in the Scottish Borders.

Councillor Jim Buchanan spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration of East Ayrshire Council said: “We’re delighted that Kilmarnock’s Multi Storey Car Park has won this striking makeover.

“This treatment will give a new emphasis to the design of the metalwork on the building and provide a strong focal point for Kilmarnock Town Centre at a time when we are actively regenerating and promoting it as a great place to work, shop and live.”

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Issued by The BIG Partnership on behalf of Highland Galvanizers and Colour Coaters
For more information please contact:
Debbi Jennings or Gavin Cameron on 0141 333 9585

That’s the slogan on everyone’s lips at Grange Academy, Kilmarnock, as students and staff at the state-of-the-art school plan to make and sell products online, with the backing of top entrepreneur Sir Tom Hunter.

As part of an ambitious business enterprise programme, the school plans to manufacture and market . . . → Read More: Nothing will stop press going global!]]> GGG – Grange Goes Global!

That’s the slogan on everyone’s lips at Grange Academy, Kilmarnock, as students and staff at the state-of-the-art school plan to make and sell products online, with the backing of top entrepreneur Sir Tom Hunter.

As part of an ambitious business enterprise programme, the school plans to manufacture and market small scale models of the Burns First Edition Printing Press – the wooden press used by John Wilson to print the first edition of the poems of Robert Burns in July 1786. The blue-grey paperback – which shot the young poet to fame – was published in Kilmarnock in an edition of 612 copies.

Grange Academy Enterprise Group will replicate Wilson’s press in the hope of creating a niche market for this valuable piece of Ayrshire cultural heritage. Technical teacher Peter Smith created a template of the press, working from original plans held in the Dick Institute, where a full-sized working model is displayed.

Pupils will manufacture copies using new hi-tech machines purchased with the school’s share of the Council’s £1 million Business Enterprise Fund, set up to develop young people’s entrepreneurial skills and make them more ‘business ready’.

Only two replicas have been created so far. Model number one was taken by Head of Scottish Engineering Dr Peter Hughes to Cape Town, South Africa, last week, while model number two recently travelled to Madeira with local tenor John Goodwin – all part of GGG’s plans to take over the world!

The school is establishing a company run by senior pupils who will e-market and sell the product globally, with the support of The Hunter Foundation.

Other heritage products in the pipeline include beautiful collectable wooden Mauchline ware boxes. Burns lived for a while in Mauchline, where he met Jean Armour and wrote many of his best-known poems, such as To A Mouse and Holy Willie’s Prayer.

Work in the school’s Business Enterprise Skills Centre will link to a new Scottish Studies course commencing in the school.

Masterminding the enterprising initiative are Grange Headteacher Fred Wildridge, Enterprise Co-ordinator Tom Barclay and new Principal Teacher of Scottish Studies Jean Hillhouse.

Fred Wildridge, who is a geographer, said: “East Ayrshire’s rich cultural heritage is world famous. We are aiming high and we have plans to go global with our products, which will tap into the huge market for quality Burns memorabilia.

“We chose to make these unique items because they fit well into what we are doing in the school and into the national curriculum. Jean is the first PT of Scottish Studies in the whole of Scotland and we have a Gaelic Unit in the school.

“We were also advised by a former member of staff, technical teacher Jimmy Gibson, who is past president of the World Burns Federation.”

Jean Hillhouse added: “In Scottish Studies, we’ll look at Scots Language and Scottish culture across the curriculum.

“It’s also important that students learn more about the huge influence Scots people have had on the world – not just Burns, but also figures like mathematician John Napier, the discoverer of logarithms and 19th century doctor and suffragist Elsie Inglis, famed for her efforts in the First World War”.

Councillor Hugh Ross said: “I commend the staff and students at Grange for their very creative approach to global marketing. They have thought carefully about their product and linked it closely to education and the curriculum and have gained the support of the best in the business, including Dr Peter Hughes and Sir Tom Hunter.

“I look forward to seeing how their enterprise develops in the future and applaud their championing of our local and national heritage”.

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

And their skill was celebrated with the formal opening of the annual Schools Art and Design Exhibition in The Dick on Wednesday 1 . . . → Read More: Art’s the fashion for young designers]]> Live music, a stunning fashion show and an amazing array of art and design – the creative talent of local young people was there for all to see – and hear.

And their skill was celebrated with the formal opening of the annual Schools Art and Design Exhibition in The Dick on Wednesday 1 February.

The 2012 display featured creative artwork by pupils of Auchinleck, Cumnock, Doon, Grange, James Hamilton, Kilmarnock, Loudoun, Stewarton and St Joseph’s academies and Park School.

Guests were welcomed by music from Stewarton Academy guitar ensemble, before being treated to a stunning fashion extravaganza put on by students of Kilmarnock and Cumnock academies, modelling their fantastic creations.

Kilmarnock Academy art teacher Kirsty Lee said: “Our students used a variety of themes including the jungle, peacocks, skulls and bones. They also experimented with materials such as bottle tops, sweet wrappers, bin bags and eggshells. Using these kinds of materials allows maximum creativity – as well as helping the environment!”

Teraessa Lopez, Cumnock Academy Principal Teacher of art and design, said: “This has been a very technically challenging project for pupils. Some had never even threaded a needle before!

“Hundreds of beads have been patiently sewn on individually, slipped stitches have been laboriously picked up and there has been a constant battle with sewing machines that like to eat wool, silk and any other fabric we put in their paths.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, congratulated all the young artists and thanked teaching staff and the Creative Minds Team for supporting and encouraging pupils throughout the year.

He said: “The Creative Minds Team supports students and staff by organising workshops and artist residencies which link students directly to professional artists. This practical experience is highly rewarding and encourages learning of new skills, as well as presenting exciting opportunities for pupils.

“The results are here for all to see in this excellent exhibition of high quality work by our very talented young people”.

Thanks also went to the Eden Trust for generous financial support and to Cumnock Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) for supporting the Art of Regeneration project at Cumnock Academy.

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

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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East Ayrshire Councillors agreed the proposal last week, following full public consultation during September and October 2011. Letters were issued to stakeholders, a public . . . → Read More: Muirkirk nursery class set for new start]]> Nursery education for Muirkirk tots will no longer take place off-campus, as the pre-school class is set to move from its present building to Muirkirk Primary School, from August 2012.

East Ayrshire Councillors agreed the proposal last week, following full public consultation during September and October 2011. Letters were issued to stakeholders, a public meeting was held in Muirkirk Primary – and even children in the school and nursery were asked for their opinions.

Most parents were positive about the proposed move. NHS Ayrshire & Arran responses indicated that it would ensure a greater integration between nursery and primary and therefore support smoother transition.

A mind map was used to gather comments from nursery children and they were introduced to Mr Crow, a puppet bird with a nest overlooking the new nursery class.

Some of the children wanted to see flowers and a tree planted. Another child liked to build houses and measure things – he hoped he could do that in the new nursery.

Muirkirk Primary Pupil Council members also gave their views. One young person originally thought the move was not a good idea because the nursery children would ‘miss out on feeling older, making new friends and having surprises’. She changed her mind to thinking it was ‘a brilliant idea’, after having a look at the plans.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “The relocation of Muirkirk Primary School and Nursery Class into the main campus of the primary school will enhance the education, care and experience of our very youngest children.

“They will benefit from a building designed for the delivery of a 21st century curriculum.

“We will ensure that there is a smooth transition from the current site to the new site. Nursery children will be fully integrated into the school in playrooms with direct access to an outdoor play area. There will also be an outdoor classroom to the front of the school, designed to promote active learning.

“Staff will be able to work more regularly together to plan the curriculum and share expertise”.

Current arrangements, with the nursery located separately, mean a journey of one mile for the headteacher to visit her charges in the nursery class.

Cost to incorporate the nursery within the school, including alterations to the car park, is £175,000.

In an Education Scotland report, HM Inspectors noted that parents felt the Council had provided appropriate opportunities for them to express their views and were generally positive about the proposal.

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

The service has been established in order to provide a more localised response to social work crisis situations which may occur outwith office hours. All of the Ayrshire councils have . . . → Read More: New social work out of hours response service to cover all of Ayrshire]]> A new Social Work out of hours response service that will serve the needs of all Ayrshire communities will soon be up and running.

The service has been established in order to provide a more localised response to social work crisis situations which may occur outwith office hours. All of the Ayrshire councils have previously been part of the West of Scotland Social Work Standby Service operated by Glasgow City Council.

The work to set up the service is being led by a pan-Ayrshire working group consisting of senior social work officers from North, South and East Ayrshire Councils. The new service will be based at Crosshouse Hospital which will enable close working links with NHS out of hours crisis services. East Ayrshire Council will host its management and delivery.

Councillor John MacKay, Spokesperson for Community Health and Wellbeing, East Ayrshire Council said: “The recruitment of the Senior Social Work practitioners who will work in the standby service is going well and the new service will be up and running by April. Having a joint service that is focused on the needs of Ayrshire residents will greatly enhance the service provided and help to ensure that the more vulnerable members of our communities are being helped when and where they need it.”

This is the seventh year in a row East Ayrshire has received a prestigious National Music Council (NMC) diploma, fighting off competition from local authorities all over the UK.

A National Music Council spokesperson . . . → Read More: Music on song in East Ayrshire schools]]> East Ayrshire Council has once again scooped a top award for its high-quality music provision to young people in schools.

This is the seventh year in a row East Ayrshire has received a prestigious National Music Council (NMC) diploma, fighting off competition from local authorities all over the UK.

A National Music Council spokesperson said: “For many years now, East Ayrshire has been operating at the top of its game, excelling in areas such as special educational needs provision, partnerships and continuing professional development (CPD).

“The range of programmes catches the eye – an opera for babies, a partnership with Music at The Brewhouse to bring the International ‘Love Music’ Festival to 1,500 children in Kilmarnock’s Grand Hall; a partnership with the Kilmarnock Town Centre Heritage Initiative, developing musical experiences for young people; whole primary classes learning to play strings, along with their teachers, parents and even grandparents; the Silk Road inter-disciplinary programme linking with the Confucius Institute, Tapestry Partnership, Harvard and Edinburgh University. And those are just the new initiatives for 2010/11.

“If you then add in some of the continuing programmes, such as choral development, masterclasses, music appreciation sessions in secondary schools, rock and pop songwriting tuition and samba workshops, it is easy to see why the panel wanted to recognise East Ayrshire again.

“But it is also worth mentioning one aspect that stood out for us – East Ayrshire’s CPD programme. Many staff hours are devoted to training and this is reflected in the incredible provision East Ayrshire makes on an ongoing basis”.

The Council’s music service also received a special mention in the Performing Right Society (PRS) for Music Foundation Awards.

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Jim Roberts said: “This is a marvelous achievement for East Ayrshire to be selected from applicants from all over the UK.

“The success is richly deserved for the Education Department’s music team.

“The team led by John Wilson, Links Officer in Arts and Education, Paul Wood, Head of Instrumental Services and Julie Carrie, Youth Music Support Teacher, is once again in the national spotlight for contributing to our world-class music education”.

This year’s NMC Local Authority Music Education Awards attracted the largest number of submissions for many years. The standard was very high, with 10 authorities receiving diplomas in addition to Major Award winner Blackpool.

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

No waiting and no loading restrictions will now be applied to Kersland Gait from the junction at Vennel Street to the traffic calming measures which narrow . . . → Read More: Loading and waiting restrictions for Kersland Gait]]> Stewarton’s Kersland Gait is set to benefit from parking restrictions following a number of complaints from local residents about vehicles parking on-street for long periods of time.

No waiting and no loading restrictions will now be applied to Kersland Gait from the junction at Vennel Street to the traffic calming measures which narrow the carriageway to a single lane.

Councillor Bobby McDill, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration said: “It is essential that there is good visibility on this stretch of road for the traffic calming measures to work effectively. Many people have been parking between the junction and the start of the calming features for long periods of time which has caused a real problem for residents. We have listened to their concerns and have taken action to resolve this issue.”

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The new 68 space Park and Ride, developed by East Ayrshire Council in partnership with Strathclyde Partnership for Transport and Network Rail, . . . → Read More: Stewarton is ready to park and ride!]]> The much anticipated new Park and Ride car park off Standalane in Stewarton opens to the public tomorrow, Tuesday 31 January 2012, and the Council is anticipating high demand from local commuters.

The new 68 space Park and Ride, developed by East Ayrshire Council in partnership with Strathclyde Partnership for Transport and Network Rail, was constructed by Luddon Construction Ltd. The £750,000 facility includes a new two-way access road from Standalane together with a pedestrian walkway access ramp and stairs from the car park to both platforms at Stewarton Railway Station.

Improvements were also made to the layout of the junction of Standalane with Kilwinning Road which included the installation of a new street lighting system. The Park and Ride also incorporates spaces for disabled drivers plus parent and child parking, footway access from both Standalane and Ravenscraig Road, a new street lighting system, and full CCTV coverage.

Viewing the new site ahead of its official opening, Councillor Bobby McDill, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration and SPT member for East Ayrshire; who was joined by local member for Annick – Councillor John McGhee, said: “I am delighted to see that this much needed Park and Ride facility is ready to open. I’m sure it will be welcomed by the many people who use the rail link, particularly between Glasgow and Kilmarnock. It will also help to reduce parking congestion in the area around the station for local residents.

“This has been a combined effort but goes to show how partnership working can deliver strategic transport solutions. Park and Ride schemes have been hugely successful across the region and I’m sure that this new facility will help build the transport network for this area for years to come.”

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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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At Loudoun Academy, Galston, senior pupils Scott Elder and Jennifer Paterson, both 17, spoke to all the young people in the school over . . . → Read More: Local youngsters remember children of holocaust]]> Schoolchildren across East Ayrshire stood silent for one minute on Holocaust Memorial Day last week, as they remembered the deaths of victims of Nazi Germany – including over one million children.

At Loudoun Academy, Galston, senior pupils Scott Elder and Jennifer Paterson, both 17, spoke to all the young people in the school over a week, in a series of morning assemblies.

The pair recently returned from a trip to Auschwitz organized by the Holocaust Educational Trust (HET) as part of the groundbreaking Lessons from Auschwitz (LFA) project.

Through the LFA Project, students and teachers take part in seminars and a one-day visit to the former Nazi extermination camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau in Poland, in order to then pass on the lessons in their schools and communities.

Scott and Jennifer travelled as part of a Scottish group which included young people from several East Ayrshire secondary schools.

Pupils were guided round the concentration camp Auschwitz 1, passing under the notorious entrance sign ‘Arbeit Macht Frei’ (‘Work sets you free’), to see where prisoners lived and worked.

They then visited Birkenau, the neighbouring death camp, with its huge gas chambers – where around 1.4 million people were tortured and gassed by Nazis during the Second World War. Victims were mainly Jews, but also included Poles, gypsies and Russian prisoners of war.

One room in the museum has a glass wall, behind which is a mountain of human hair, shaved from the bodies of victims. Around 700,000 people visit the Auschwitz death camp every year.

Before the trip, Scott and Jennifer met a holocaust survivor in Glasgow, who was imprisoned with her mother in Birkenau. Jennifer and Scott were impressed by how “tough and strong” she was and were particularly struck when she said she was “beyond tears”, describing how she and her mother stole from the dead to survive.

Since their return, the students have worked on promoting the importance of remembering the Holocaust throughout the school. They prepared a presentation for all year group assemblies and organised a minute’s silence on Friday 27 January, Holocaust Memorial Day.

Jennifer said: “The journey to Auschwitz was a life-changing and emotional experience, which made me realise what is significant and what is insignificant in life.”

Scott said: “It was staggering to be in the presence of such cruelty. If anyone has the chance to visit, they should”.

History teacher Sarah Purdie said: “Jennifer and Scott’s presentations emphasised the connections between the Holocaust and our everyday lives. They stressed everyone’s personal responsibility as good citizens to speak out against bullying and prejudice.

“Their work has been a very valuable part of the learning experience of the whole school, with pupils discovering more about the importance of compassion, tolerance and respect. This gave all Loudoun’s young people plenty to think about during the minute’s silence”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This important project isn’t just a day-visit to Auschwitz. The point is that the students come back into their local schools and communities and make sure everyone knows about their experience, what they’ve learned and, most importantly, how the Holocaust is still relevant to us today.”

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

Fergus Ewing, MSP, Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism cut the first turf today at The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory.

The observatory, due to open at Craigengillan Estate in Dalmellington in September, is the first of its kind in Britain. Its location in Galloway Forest Park means that it will enjoy . . . → Read More: Reaching for the stars]]>

Fergus Ewing, MSP, Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism cut the first turf today at The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory.

The observatory, due to open at Craigengillan Estate in Dalmellington in September, is the first of its kind in Britain. Its location in Galloway Forest Park means that it will enjoy some of the darkest skies in the world; the park itself being one of only ten in the world to be recognised by the International Dark Sky Association. Countless stars, the Milky Way, shooting stars, planets, comets and the Northern Lights are all visible from the area. The observatory will provide a spectacular opportunity to view and appreciate the night sky through state-of-the art telescopes and imaging equipment.

It is hoped that the observatory will attract visitors from throughout Europe, and indeed the world, to Dalmellington, increasing tourism and helping to regenerate an area which has witnessed the demise of a once thirving coal industry. The observatory should attract even more visitors following recent reports of telescope sales soaring by 500% due to the popularity of the “Stargazing Live” programme on BBC2.

As an important educational resource it will benefit the local community and a much larger public audience of stargazers, amateur astronomers, schools, colleges and universities. And viewing will not merely be restricted to night time; daytime visitors can enjoy livetime links with observatories in Australia and other parts of the world. A major part of the observatory’s work will also involve raising awareness of light pollution and the impact that it has on our view of the night sky.

The project is being advanced by the Dark Sky Observatory and was made possible due to the support of the following organisations: Ayrshire LEADER; Cumnock and Doon Valley Minerals Trust; East Ayrshire Council; The Monument Trust; William Grant & Sons Ltd; Eden Charitable Trust; Barr Environmental through the Landfill Communities Fund; James Weir Foundation; The Robertson Trust; Coalfields Regeneration Trust and the Scottish Government.

Energy, Enterprise and Tourism Minister Fergus Ewing said: “Scotland has made an immense contribution to shaping the modern world through science and research excellence, and this new observatory builds on our reputation as a hotbed of innovation and ideas.

“The creation of a state-of-the-art, first of its kind in Britain, observatory will attract stargazers and astronomers from near and far. Almost four million people tuned into the BBC’s Stargazing Live programme and it is hoped that this new observatory will capitalise on the success of the show and capture the imagination of people of all ages.

“The Galloway Forest Park area enjoys some of the darkest skies in the world and this new facility will showcase the area’s stunning natural scenery and resources to attract new visitors and investment to Ayrshire.”

Councillor Iain Linton, Depute Leader of the Council, said: “The Dark Sky Observatory will be a huge asset for East Ayrshire in terms of the tourism and educational benefits it will bring to the area. It should attract not only local visitors, but many tourists and keen stargazers from around the world who I’m sure will be extremely impressed with the new facility. This in turn will act as a catalyst for the regeneration of the area and will really put East Ayrshire on the map.”

Observatory Manager Cath Seeds added: “We have worked so hard over the last two years to generate the enthusiasm and raise funds for this project. It is wonderful that we can come together today and officially start the construction of the observatory.

“The project aims to bring ‘astronomy to all’. Often, the science can feel overwhelming, so we want the observatory to break these barriers by bringing together astronomy, nocturnal natural history and arts and crafts inspired by the night sky. We also want to play a key role in the future development of this area. Great things are occurring and great talent is abundant. Our role is to improve science in our community, whether by inspiring the next generation of scientists or providing the spark needed by an inventor to produce something truly remarkable.”

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Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, welcomed guests to the turfcutting, a key stage in the history of Littlemill, performed by Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for . . . → Read More: Littlemill refurb off to a good start]]> Parents, teachers and children gathered recently to celebrate the start of work on the refurbishment of Littlemill Primary School and Nursery Class – despite the wintry weather!

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, welcomed guests to the turfcutting, a key stage in the history of Littlemill, performed by Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning.

Councillor Reid said: “The investment we are making in the facilities here is part of our continued commitment to education and lifelong learning.

“We want the education of all children to take place in surroundings fit for the 21st century. There is no doubt this building, despite its real charm, presented a number of challenges and we wanted to address these”.

The interior of the building is set to be fully refurbished. All classrooms will be modernised and toilets will be upgraded. The electrics and heating will be overhauled and new
carpets, blinds and fitted furniture will be installed.

A nursery room and external soft surface play area will be created and the school will also benefit from a modernised gym and dining building, with a new food server zone.

Outside, there will be an eco garden, along with upgraded car-parking and CCTV.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “I am sure that the refurbishment, which is a considerable investment in this particular building, will secure a positive and modern educational environment for the young people of this area for a long time to come.

“I am very confident that under the leadership of Cindy O’Driscoll, new Headteacher of Littlemill and Dalrymple Primary Schools, we will see an exciting new phase of development that will meet the needs, interests and aspirations of Rankinston and the Doon catchment area”.

Alan Taylor, Regional Director of contractors Lovell, said: “We are pleased to be working with East Ayrshire Council on this exciting refurbishment of a well-loved local school, which will provide a modern learning environment for the children who will attend over the years.”

East Ayrshire Council is investing in Doon Valley with new schools on the Patna/St Xavier’s campus and a refurbished primary school and new nursery in New Cumnock.

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

Grange Campus played host to a large delegation from China which included Hongjie Liu, Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute and Assistant . . . → Read More: Enter the Year of the Dragon…]]> Lucky youngsters brought in the Chinese New Year with a bang when an amazing array of visitors called in to wish them all the best for the auspicious Year of the Dragon.

Grange Campus played host to a large delegation from China which included Hongjie Liu, Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute and Assistant President Li Wei of Shanghai University, famed for its ‘passion, charm and spirit’.

But all eyes were on the spectacular dancers, elegant musicians and martial arts specialists who entertained pupils of Annanhill, Gargieston, Park and Grange to an extravaganza of entertainment in the Grand Spring Festival Gala.

Youngsters were entranced by beautiful music played on Chinese instruments such as the two-stringed erhu, the pipa and the bamboo flute, accompanied by singers.

Those in the audience who study Chinese in the school’s Confucius classroom may have understood more than most, but everyone enjoyed the show, which was all in Mandarin.

A highlight was the Moving Cloud and Flowing Water tai chi exhibition, followed by a lightning-fast kung-fu routine which brought spontaneous applause and cheers from the youngsters. The audience were then invited on to their feet to join in martial arts exercises, lunging and shouting “Ha!” in unison.

Grange Academy Headteacher Fred Wildridge said: “We were absolutely delighted to welcome the visitors from Shanghai. This gala performance fitted well with our Chinese language programme in the school and had links to our Silk Road project. Global citizenship is high on our agenda – but most of all, this was an amazing and enjoyable event, in celebration of the Chinese New Year”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This spectacular show was a real treat for the young people, bringing to life the culture and language of China, which they may have only experienced previously in books or films. It provided a wonderful opportunity for pupils to meet the young Chinese performers face to face”.

The school’s Silk Road project involves all subject areas in studying the historical trade routes that criss-crossed Eurasia for 2,000 years. Silk travelled from China to Scotland, but so also did cultural, scientific, mathematical and religious ideas. By following the silk route, the school can touch on many areas of interest.

One thousand pupils from Grange and the two other schools in the project will perform in a mass concert in Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall in November 2012.

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

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 town is set to host its first ever Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile on Sunday 25 March and needs local people to come together and show their support . . . → Read More: Start limbering up for the Stewarton Mile!]]> Sport Relief is back and it’s coming to Stewarton. And the message from the Active Schools team is – it’s time to get your trainers on!

The town is set to host its first ever Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile on Sunday 25 March and needs local people to come together and show their support by entering now at www.sportrelief.com.

Taking place at Stewarton Academy, the Active Schools Stewarton Mile is set to be an incredible event. Entrants don’t have to be sporty to take part and all local children are being encouraged to bring along friends, family and teachers to take part in the mile.

Those who want more of a challenge can do the course extra times in order to complete three or six miles, knowing that all the money raised will help to change the lives of people living tough lives right here on our doorstep, across the rest of the UK and in some the world’s poorest countries.

Laura Wallace, Active Schools Co-ordinator for the Stewarton Learning Community, said: “I decided to organise this Mile for the first time to allow local children and their families to take part in a big event without having to travel too far. The aim of the event is to bring children and their families from all four schools in the Learning Community together to raise money for a fantastic cause”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Active Schools do a great job in encouraging families to be more active, more often. From tots with their mums and dads, to super sprinters up against the clock, there’s something for everyone on the big day. This is the first Sport Relief Mile in Stewarton, so I hope the community will support it by taking part.”

As one of the UK’s biggest fundraising events, Sport Relief brings the entire nation together to get active, raise cash and change lives.

Sport Relief has a unique history of dedicated people doing extraordinary things to rise to the challenge. Last September, David Walliams started Sport Relief off with an epic splash when he completed The BT Sport Relief Challenge: Walliams vs The Thames. Despite battling a bacterial bug and bitingly cold water, David swam a staggering 140 miles and has so far raised over £1million for Sport Relief.

There will be even more amazing celebrity challenges to get the nation geared up for the Sport Relief weekend, which kicks off on Friday 23 March, when everyone gets active, has fun and raises cash at home, at work or at school.

To enter the Active Schools Stewarton mile, visit www.sportrelief.com . For more information contact Laura Wallace on 01560 483653 or laura.wallace@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.

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

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration at East Ayrshire Council said: “We are delighted by this great news. 14 London Road’s location close to the town . . . → Read More: 14 London Road set to delight diners]]> Kilmarnock’s 14 London Road is about to be transformed after being purchased by G1 Group for an exciting new restaurant venture with top chef Michael Kilkie.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration at East Ayrshire Council said: “We are delighted by this great news. 14 London Road’s location close to the town centre on the historic London Road and the beauty of the building itself, which typifies the kind of historical property that G1 Group invests in, will make it an attractive venue and eatery. And we are particularly pleased to hear that it will be headed up by local man Michael.

“Michael’s reputation as the Sunday Mail Cookery Columnist together with his experience running successful restaurants such as Waverley Tea Room, The Cricklewood and The Byre are bound to stimulate interest and demand. He has worked in Kilmarnock and Ayrshire before, including Braehead Cook School and there certainly is room for another quality restaurant in Kilmarnock to add to the existing choice.

“It made sense for us to move our Trading Standards Offices to John Dickie Street in line with our policy of bringing more workers and life into the town centre. A beautiful old building such as 14 London Road presents all sorts of possibilities for future use. It is heartening to have it sold so quickly, proving that investors from outwith the area have confidence to Make it Kilmarnock, developing our town as “a great place to work, shop, live and eat!”

Michael commented: “I’ve walked passed 14 London Road every day for a decade and always thought what an amazing venue it could be. I’m absolutely delighted to be able to be working with G1 Group in making my dreams a reality and to serve the community I know so well.

“For me personally, knowing the community and having friends and family in the area I know what will work and I can’t wait for it. I believe there’s a massive gap in the area for a good quality, value for money community venue that everyone can enjoy. I’ve learned so much working with the G1 Group team over the last few years and I’m bursting with ideas.”

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Members of the Parent Council, Headteacher Christine MacLean, elected members and Council officers went on-site to inspect progress at the . . . → Read More: Good progress at Gargieston]]> Several hundred Kilmarnock children are looking forward to learning in a new school – and some lucky youngsters made a visit to see how the state-of-the-art building at the Dundonald Road site was progressing.

Members of the Parent Council, Headteacher Christine MacLean, elected members and Council officers went on-site to inspect progress at the new multi-million pound Gargieston Primary School and Nursery Class, which is on target to complete in summer 2012.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council and local elected member, cut the turf to mark the start of construction in May 2011.

The new-build is based on the design of the recently completed Galston Primary building, with external landscaping involving design features specifically for outdoor activities.

Local contractor Dawn Construction has achieved a wind and watertight shell at this stage, which is to programme. Workers are presently installing windows and external doors along with the first fix services installations and the sheeting of internal walls and partitions.

The construction phase of the school involved extensive grouting works to fill old mine workings, which led to the decant of pupils to Grange Campus, Shortlees, Bellfield and Crosshouse sites, from summer 2010.

Councillor Douglas Reid said: “The Gargieston project is proceeding according to programme and the contractors are working well with the Council and the community to deliver a successful outcome.

“This East Ayrshire project is jointly funded by the Scottish Government, with the Scottish Futures Trust as advisors and facilitators and this is the first such project in the life of the Council.

“We will see here a well planned and sustainable modern school, with facilities and space that address all the issues that were of concern to the Gargieston school community in the previous building”.

Councillor Iain Linton, Depute Leader of the Council, said: “I want to pay tribute to the Gargieston Parent Council and community for their support for this project, which will benefit children of the area for decades to come”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “I wish to pay particular tribute to Gargieston staff, parents and children for their support during the decant phase. This would not have been possible without the very positive attitude that has prevailed throughout this project – and it won’t be long now till they are able to enjoy their new school!”

Alan Macdonald, group chairman of Dawn Group, said: “The construction of this multi-million pound state-of-the-art school is coming along well and the team is on budget and on schedule to complete this summer, as planned.

“With our reputation as one of Scotland’s leading independent construction specialists, we are proud to be involved in delivering this brand new facility alongside our partners, which will provide a fantastic learning hub for those who will attend over the years.”

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

Six Grange Academy pupils from the school’s Mandarin class will take part in the grand final – . . . → Read More: Youngsters take on Chinese X-Factor challenge]]> Talented language students of a local secondary school fought off stiff competition at a recent heat to win through to the UK finals of a contest with an amazing prize – a trip to China in April.

Six Grange Academy pupils from the school’s Mandarin class will take part in the grand final – billed as the “Chinese X factor” – at the British Museum in London on 10 February.

Three S1 pupils (Matt Steel, Ross Bennett and Sean McCafferty), one S2 pupil (Olivia Crockett) and two S3 pupils (Susannah McWhirter and Rebekah Marshall) will compete.

Teacher of Mandarin Lynnette Martin said: “All the group study Chinese as a foreign language as part of their normal studies, but as an extra-curricular activity, they created and performed a short drama performance about festivals.

“They thought it was interesting that Christmas is not celebrated in China to the same extent as it is here, so they played the roles of a Scottish person and a Chinese person trying to decide which was better – Christmas or the Dragon Boat Festival – and acted out the story behind the Dragon Boat Festival.

“Although the young people have only been studying Chinese for a relatively short time, they still used Mandarin for most of the performance, with Susannah providing a simple explanation in English”.

“All the pupils have worked really hard and their performance in Newcastle was very enjoyable. The whole school is proud of them and everyone wishes them good luck”.

The talented youngsters previously competed in the regional heat in Newcastle in both the Individual and Group Performance sections.

Now in its ninth year, the competition is part of the British Council and the HSBC Global Education Programme’s work to prepare children in the UK for life in a society where links with China – the world’s second largest economy – will be important.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “There is a very dedicated group of pupils in the Confucius Hub at Grange Academy who have been working hard writing their play and preparing their talks.

“To have made it to the final is a major achievement, especially considering some of the young people have only studied Mandarin for a few months, while the third year pupils have been doing it since first year”.

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

Groups of up to 30 youths have been gathering at the park to drink alcohol and are also setting small fires. In a bid to halt anti social . . . → Read More: Anti social behaviour monitored at Dean Castle Country Park]]> East Ayrshire Council and Strathclyde Police have joined forces following reports that large numbers of youths are gathering at Dean Castle Country Park in the evenings.

Groups of up to 30 youths have been gathering at the park to drink alcohol and are also setting small fires. In a bid to halt anti social behaviour, increased security has been implemented at the park and there will be an additional police presence at key times. The Council’s Risk Management Centre, which operates the area’s CCTV, is also monitoring the situation.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “I would ask visitors to remain vigilant and report any antisocial behaviour to Strathclyde Police. The Council is also available out of normal working hours on 0845 724 0000.”

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The Council already provides the Scottish Procurement Information Hub with information on what it spends, and this is enhanced using company information from commercial databases.

The information for the financial year 2010/11 is currently available, . . . → Read More: Council publishes spending details]]> East Ayrshire Council is taking part in a Scottish Government initiative to publish details on all spending over £1000.

The Council already provides the Scottish Procurement Information Hub with information on what it spends, and this is enhanced using company information from commercial databases.

The information for the financial year 2010/11 is currently available, and can be viewed at www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/spotlightonspend/ or directly from the link on the Council’s main web page. Any queries can be e-mailed to procurement@east-ayrshire.gov.uk and a member of the Procurement Team will respond to you.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Douglas Reid said: “East Ayrshire Council is committed to being open and transparent wherever possible and this new initiative is just another way to demonstrate this commitment. By making the information available online, people will be able to gain a better understanding of where, and how, their money is being spent.”

Note to editor:

Entries marked as ‘redacted’ are those where the name of the supplier is an individual person, and therefore their identity, but not the amount, requires to be withheld to comply with data protection legislation.

Expenditure is categorised on the website by commodity or service provided. This information comes from supplier databases, such as the Thomson’s Local Directory, and may not necessarily relate to the purpose of East Ayrshire Council incurring the spend.

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Ryan O’Leary and Alex Pursehouse dropped in at Grange’s on-campus SFA School of Football at the invitation of coach Alan Sloss. The talented two were happy to pose for pictures with the young players . . . → Read More: League Cup comes to Killie!]]> Grange Academy youngsters were over the moon yesterday when two Killie FC players turned up with the Scottish League Cup.

Ryan O’Leary and Alex Pursehouse dropped in at Grange’s on-campus SFA School of Football at the invitation of coach Alan Sloss. The talented two were happy to pose for pictures with the young players – and with keen Killie supporter Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council.

Said Councillor Reid: “I’m hoping for blue and white ribbons on the Cup, after the semi-final against Ayr United at Hampden. We’re just polishing it up for Manuel Pascali”.

But if the players thought it was all over after their photocall on the astroturf – well, it wasn’t.

Accompanied by Cup, the pair caused quite a stir on campus. They happily chatted and signed autographs for excited Annahill P5 pupils who were allowed out of class by Headteacher Jackie Hanlon. Some of the excited youngsters could not resist touching the shiny Cup – and one or two even kissed it!

Ryan and Alex were also happy to pose for photos with a Mandarin Chinese class from the school’s Confucius Hub, with Park School pupils in the community cafe – and even with a visiting group of Belgians from Kilmarnock’s twin town of Herstal, who just happened to be passing through!

Grange Academy Headteacher Fred Wildridge was delighted to welcome the friendly Killie players and indeed all the other visitors into the school – especially after Ryan O’Leary revealed he was quarter Chinese.

Mr Wildridge – who comes from Liverpool and is a lifelong fan of Liverpool FC – admitted he did not at first recognise the players, but judging by the attention they were getting, especially from teenage girls, he soon worked out who they were.

He said: “Since two Ayrshire teams are meeting in this important semi-final at Hampden, it means at least one Ayrshire team will be in the final, which is excellent, at the end of the day”.

ends

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

Local tenor and speaker John Goodwin stopped off at Council Headquarters last week en route to Madeira where he’s planning to promote Kilmarnock at a special Burns Supper.

Each year at the Reid Palace Hotel in Madeira, a Burns Supper is held to mark the hotel’s very Scottish connection. The . . . → Read More: A Taste of Kilmarnock in Madeira]]>

Local tenor and speaker John Goodwin stopped off at Council Headquarters last week en route to Madeira where he’s planning to promote Kilmarnock at a special Burns Supper.

Each year at the Reid Palace Hotel in Madeira, a Burns Supper is held to mark the hotel’s very Scottish connection. The hotel was founded by William Reid who was born in Riccarton in 1822. William left Kilmarnock for Madeira at the age of 14 with a few pounds in his pocket and by the age of 24, he had started up in business as a wine merchant. Within a few years, he became the largest vintner in Madeira.

Using the profits from the wine business, he invested in property and then quickly moved from renting villas to the hotel industry. His ultimate ambition was to build one of the finest hotels in the world and to this end he bought a piece of headland in 1886 offering fabulous views and work began. Unfortunately William died in 1888 before he saw his dream completed, but his family completed the hotel and at the turn of the century, Reid’s was regarded as one of the top hotels in the world.

John Goodwin has been attending the Burns Supper at the hotel for the last few years to help continue the Ayrshire/Kilmarnock connection. Once again this year he will be holding a ‘Spirit of Kilmarnock’ exhibition in the hotel to promote the area and its ongoing regeneration and tourism plans.

To contribute to the exhibition, Provost Young presented John with a small scale model of the Kilmarnock printing press which was developed by Peter Smith from Grange Academy’s Technical Department through the Council’s Business Enterprise Skills Centre initiative.

The Provost said: “William Reid was a real Kilmarnock success story; a true entrepreneur who had incredible vision. I hope John’s exhibition attracts a lot of attention and highlights to people at the Burns Supper all that Kilmarnock has to offer in terms of both business and tourism.”

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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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A charity originally set up to provide payments to women suffering from incurable diseases has just made a one-off donation of its funds to The Ayrshire Hospice.

Recognising that The Bequest of Misses Parker was no longer providing any public benefit, the Trustees applied to the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator for . . . → Read More: Misses Parker’s Bequest aids The Ayrshire Hospice]]>

A charity originally set up to provide payments to women suffering from incurable diseases has just made a one-off donation of its funds to The Ayrshire Hospice.

Recognising that The Bequest of Misses Parker was no longer providing any public benefit, the Trustees applied to the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator for a reorganisation scheme which would allow the entire fund to be transferred to the Hospice.

Following approval of the application, a sum of £2,323.00, the current value of the Bequest, was recently handed over to the Hospice which will go directly towards providing specialist palliative care to the people of Kilmarnock and Ayrshire.

Councillor John Campbell, Trustee and Chair of the Trust, said: “It’s wonderful that the Bequest can contribute to the hugely important work that is carried out every day by the Hospice and it seems very fitting that the Bequest is coming to an end by fulfilling its original purpose.”

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The challenge – issued to all East Ayrshire pupils by top entrepreneur Sir Tom Hunter – was to come up with the best new idea for a product, innovation or business.

New pictorial window graphics on the refurbished Johnnie Walker Bond have been unveiled which pay tribute to the building’s unique historical position within the town.

In a past life the building was Johnnie Walker’s bonded warehouse, home to a range of whisky- related production activities including a coopers’ shop, bottle-washing house, a . . . → Read More: Window to the past]]>

New pictorial window graphics on the refurbished Johnnie Walker Bond have been unveiled which pay tribute to the building’s unique historical position within the town.

In a past life the building was Johnnie Walker’s bonded warehouse, home to a range of whisky- related production activities including a coopers’ shop, bottle-washing house, a joiners’ shop and warehouse. Located in the heart of Kilmarnock’s outstanding conservation area, the Bond now provides modern, accessible and energy-efficient accommodation for employees from East Ayrshire Council’s Roads and Transportation, Planning and Economic Development and Social Work services.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council said: “The Johnnie Walker Bond is a historic flagship building in the heart of Kilmarnock which has been refurbished to a very high standard. While it now brings hundreds of our own employees into the town centre, it used to house workers producing Johnnie Walker’s Whisky, and we wanted to acknowledge the building’s proud heritage and how it linked Kilmarnock to the rest of the world.

“Our Graphic designers worked closely with Diageo’s archivist to source images of the Johnnie Walker workers and converted the images into these stunning window graphics. The windows illustrate aspects of life back in 1893 and provide information on the wide variety of tasks that were undertaken in the actual building itself. This really is a window to the past!”

Details of the window graphics:

Engine Room
This building contains a Steam Engine, working up to 48 h.p. and the Hydraulic Ram for working the hoists.
The Engine works dynamos of sufficient power to supply the Electric Light to every part of the premises. It also supplies power for driving the machinery of the various departments.
Extract from: ‘John Walker & Sons’ (Alfred Barnard c1893)

An Interior of the Coopers’ Shop
This Shop, upwards of 50 feet square, is where customers’ casks are repaired and hooped before being sent into the Vatting House to be filled.
Extract from: ‘John Walker & Sons’ (Alfred Barnard c1893)

A Racking Store in Bonded Warehouse
This lofty and well lighted place, which measures 70 feet in length, contains five capacious Blending Vats constructed from solid oak, the largest among them
containing 8,000 gallons. It is here that the firm’s blends are racked off into casks, weighed and duly taken cognizance of by the Inland Revenue Officials.
Extract from: ‘John Walker & Sons’ (Alfred Barnard c1893)

Bottle-Washing House
This House is fitted with appliances and machinery for thoroughly cleansing the bottles. When the new bottles arrive from the Factory each one is subject to a thorough cleansing process, the firm being scrupulously particular in this matter. Every bottle is passed through the hands of an examiner before being sent to the Bottling stores.
Extract from: ‘John Walker & Sons’ (Alfred Barnard c1893)

A Joiners’ Shop, ‘Case Making’
All the Cases for the Home and Export Trade sent out by the Firm are manufactured by themselves.
Extract from: ‘John Walker & Sons’ (Alfred Barnard c1893)

Export Bottling Warehouse (North Side)
This building contains four vats holding upwards of 6,000 gallons, from which the blended Whisky is drawn off into the bottling machines. In this department the Whisky for export is bottled, corked, capsuled, labelled, and finally packed into cases, each gang of workers turning out 400 dozen per day.
Extract from: ‘John Walker & Sons’ (Alfred Barnard c1893)

Duty-Paid Bottling Department for Home Consumption
This Warehouse, situated on the west side of the premises, is for bottling duty-paid Whiskies for consumption in the United Kingdom.
Extract from: ‘John Walker & Sons’ (Alfred Barnard c1893)

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The computer scam involves the caller claiming they are from Microsoft and informs the householder that their computer has a virus. They then claim they can fix . . . → Read More: Phone scams still duping the public]]> East Ayrshire’s Trading Standards Service is still receiving reports of cold callers claiming to be able to repair your infected computer or demanding payment of phone bills.

The computer scam involves the caller claiming they are from Microsoft and informs the householder that their computer has a virus. They then claim they can fix it and ask for information to allow them to access the computer. At this point they are able to load malicious software on to the computer, show that it is infected and use scare tactics to persuade the owner to pay for a repair using their credit card details. Once the scammer has been given access to the computer, they can potentially glean important information such as passwords.

The BT scam is where a cold caller contacts the householder and threatens them with disconnection if they do not pay a supposed unpaid phone bill. The caller may even use a technique to make the householder believe their line has been disconnected as a demonstration of their ability to do this and as proof that they are genuine. This involves the caller simply staying on the line and pressing a mute or secrecy button. The caller does not have the ability to disconnect the line.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “The cold callers in both these scenarios may seem plausible, but these calls are in no way related to legitimate business. The caller is trying to obtain valuable financial information from unsuspecting householders.

“The advice to residents is simple – never allow a cold caller access to your computer and never give out personal information such as bank details over the phone to a cold caller.”

For further help and advice, contact the Trading Standards Service at Civic Centre South, John Dickie Street, Kilmarnock, online at www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/tradingstandards or by telephone on 01563 576602.

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East Ayrshire Junior Golf Development Group (JGDG) was established with key local clubs, ClubGolf and East Ayrshire Council, to engage with children, clubs and coaches to develop a stronger junior golf . . . → Read More: Driving forward junior golf in schools]]> A newly-formed partnership to promote golf for youngsters in schools has got off to a great start, having already won £10,000 of funding.

East Ayrshire Junior Golf Development Group (JGDG) was established with key local clubs, ClubGolf and East Ayrshire Council, to engage with children, clubs and coaches to develop a stronger junior golf development programme.

Active Schools Manager Cheryl Brady said: “Our aim is to improve golf and make it more accessible and fun for young people”.

The JGDG includes Rowallan Golf Club, Loudoun Gowf Club, Annanhill Golf Club, Ballochmyle Golf Club, Caprington Golf Club, New Cumnock Golf Club, Loudoun Driving Range and Doon Valley Golf Club.

The partnership recently received £10,000 from Awards for All to encourage more young people to participate in the sport, to improve local club structures by providing training for coaches, to increase the number of volunteers at each club and to provide suitable age-related equipment to make the game more accessible to all.

Cheryl Brady added: “The establishment of this group has been an important step in developing golf at grass-roots level. With the grant, we want to engage young people in golf by taking the sport into the school setting and local communities.

“The Active Schools team looks forward to working in partnership with the development group to enhance and support golf provision throughout East Ayrshire”.

Gavin Scott, JGDG chairperson, said: “We will support the introduction of golf to local schools by offering coaching sessions from club members and PGA professionals, via festivals and competitions at the clubs.”

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This is yet another example of good partnership working led by Active Schools. I’m delighted that local clubs are joining us in encouraging young people to be more active, more often, in taking up golf. I look forward to seeing how the sport develops with this strong backing”.

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

Six young people from each secondary school joined 50 Kilmarnock College students in . . . → Read More: Young people get fit for business]]> Budding young entrepreneurs learned how to take the first steps into setting up their own businesses last week in an event organised by the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) in partnership with East Ayrshire Council in the Park Hotel, Kilmarnock.

Six young people from each secondary school joined 50 Kilmarnock College students in a day of motivational speakers and workshops on topics such as marketing and raising finance. They also had the opportunity to meet and chat with successful entrepreneurs, local and national.

And the event got off to a rousing start, when the opening speaker had them on their feet straight away!

Boxer and elite personal trainer Ricky Singh had everyone – including Council Leader Councillor Douglas Reid, Councillors Jim Roberts and Hugh Ross and Chief Executive Fiona Lees – running on the spot and doing squats and lunges as a warm-up to a day of challenges.

Ricky, 24, is a former James Hamilton Academy pupil. He gained a degree in Sports Science from the University of the West of Scotland and won the Asian Scottish Business Award in November 2011. He launched his successful company Team Singh a year ago, with help from the PSYBT.

Hosting the event – and a great hit with the audience – was amazing ‘accidental entrepreneur’ Iain Scott, who runs Cognitive Business Therapies.

Recognised as an expert in how people learn to become entrepreneurs, Iain studied at Glasgow University and taught history for five years, before ‘in a fit of madness’ leaving to start his first business. He employed over 25 people and sold food to Harrods, top delicatessens and major supermarkets, before going on to develop his Cognitive Business Therapy process.

Iain encouraged the young people to take a different slant on being an entrepreneur. He said: “Businesses don’t start with a plan, they start with a conversation. Most businesses start by accident, or when people get some kind of ‘shock’, such as being made redundant, or getting divorced, or some other major life change”.

And although times may be difficult economically for new businesses, Iain said: “It’s a great time to put a toe in the water, to have a play”.

Guest entrepreneur and PSYBT award winner Patrick McDonald, Superior Catering and Leisure, spoke about his wide experience in business. The following Question Time session saw the expert panel kept on their toes by the enthusiastic young audience.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: “When we launched our £1million Business Enterprise Fund, its overall purpose was to make sure that our young people leaving school are business ready.

“East Ayrshire is already above the Scottish average in terms of positive outcomes for school leavers, but with this additional investment and assistance from our Business Leaders, partner organisations and schools, we want to raise the aspirations of our young people even higher”.

Geoff Leask, PSYBT Director of Operations, said: “PSYBT is delighted to be fully involved with the enterprise activities that East Ayrshire Council has given such prominence. This event is a great opportunity for senior school pupils and Kilmarnock College students to learn from young entrepreneurs supported by PSYBT and give them a real insight to the opportunities that exist for them to have their own business in the not too distant future”

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The meeting is the culmination of months of meetings and planning aimed at giving the people . . . → Read More: How you could help shape Galston’s future]]> The community of Galston is being invited by Galston Community Development Trust to attend a meeting on Tuesday 24 January at 7pm in Galston Primary School, to approve its constitution and register as a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Institution.

The meeting is the culmination of months of meetings and planning aimed at giving the people of Galston the chance to get involved in shaping the future of their town.

A steering group comprising community representatives selected by the community was set up in September, supported by Council officials. It has formulated a constitution, code of conduct and application for registration as a charity for the Community Development Trust. These documents, once approved by the community, will then be submitted to the charities regulator, OSCR, for official approval. This process can take up to three months.

The meeting will also consider electing a Community Engagement Steering Group to undertake a series of events aimed at working out what kind of regeneration projects residents and traders want to see in the town. The results of the community engagement will provide the basis for a masterplan of future projects. These priority projects will have the potential to attract funding from bodies such as the Lottery and Scottish Natural Heritage.

Councillor Robert McDill, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration, said: “It has been great to
see this Trust coming together with the support and hard work of local people. From the very first consultation meeting we’ve been heartened by the interest people have in the heritage and future of Galston. Those who join the Trust will have a unique opportunity to have an input into the way Galston develops.
Members will elect the management board of the Trust and will work together to select and implement future Trust projects.

“None of the work so far would have been possible without the support of the wider community. We hope that they will continue to support the Trust’s efforts and actively contribute to enhancing the future of Galston as a place in which to work, shop and live.”

Membership of the Trust is free and open to anyone who lives or works in Galston or supports the aims of
the Development Trust. If you are interested in becoming a member and attending the meetings, contact Sylvia Allen on 01563 578168 or Colin McKee on 01563 576759.

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Youngsters in schools all over East Ayrshire even have the chance to learn the world’s most popular martial art – taught by the best in the business – thanks to . . . → Read More: Next lesson – taekwondo!]]> Local pupils have always enjoyed a wide range of traditional sports in school – but now activities on offer are becoming ever more adventurous.

Youngsters in schools all over East Ayrshire even have the chance to learn the world’s most popular martial art – taught by the best in the business – thanks to an Active Schools partnership with local club Phoenix Taekwondo.

Phoenix teaches taekwondo to children and adults alike. The club is used by mums, dads and young people to reinforce discipline, encourage positive self esteem and increase fitness levels. The environment of each club is very positive, thanks to skilled instructors, who normally have at least 12 years’ martial art experience.

Phoenix Taekwondo Senior Instructor and Scottish National Coach Scott McMillan said: “Everyone has the opportunity to learn to the best of their ability and clubs are attended by a variety of students who want to be more confident in life – or to become champions.

“Many young people want to attain the coveted black belt, but the most important thing is that everyone who takes part enjoys it. Those who become black belts have the desire, discipline and perseverance to succeed – all attributes encouraged and reinforced by our instructors”.

Cheryl Brady, Active Schools Manager, said: “Phoenix Club provides an excellent introduction to the sport of taekwondo in the school environment. Given these opportunities, children and young people are encouraged and supported to attend the range of classes on offer throughout the local area. We look forward to developing our partnership with Scott and the club in the future.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Learning, said: “Our Active Schools team does a great job in encouraging young people to be more active, more often. Bringing in different activities such as taekwondo to schools is a great way of keeping children interested and encouraging them to try new sports”.

For more information about taekwondo, contact Scott McMillan on 07702156700 or email: scottm1005@yahoo.co.uk. Also see www.phoenixtaekwondo.com .

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

The three and four-year-olds of Hillbank Nursery walk all the way to Dean Park in the morning with their teachers, spend the day there doing a huge variety of . . . → Read More: If you go down to the woods today…]]> Rain, hail or shine, youngsters from a local nursery head for the great outdoors every Wednesday, for a whole day of fun – and education.

The three and four-year-olds of Hillbank Nursery walk all the way to Dean Park in the morning with their teachers, spend the day there doing a huge variety of exciting outdoor learning activities – and then walk all the way back to North West Kilmarnock Area Centre in Western Road for 3pm.

Said nursery headteacher Isabelle Campbell: “The children carry their lunches in their backpacks and we have base camps among the trees. They absolutely love learning and playing outdoors – although they do sometimes come back covered in mud from head to foot!

“Their learning is amazing. The children have named areas of the forest. They have their ‘beach’ down by the river and the ‘lumpy bumpy tree’.

“They write in the mud with sticks and have created community signage, to help with their literacy. They also cover aspects of numeracy and science and, of course, the fresh air environment is perfect for health and fitness. All that walking certainly builds up their stamina!

“Most of the tasks – such as den-building – are initiated by the children themselves. The kids have a fantastic time”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This outdoor learning is an excellent example of Curriculum for Excellence in action.

“The youngsters are enjoying learning to work as a team in an exciting, yet safe, natural environment. The activities are helping very young children to become successful learners, confident individuals and responsible citizens of the future, with respect for others and for their surroundings”.

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

Roots of Empathy is being rolled out in six primary schools in the Cumnock area – Barshare, Greenmill, Logan, Muirkirk, Netherthird and St John’s. Babies and parents will come into . . . → Read More: ‘Tiny Teachers’ in the classroom]]> Babies are to be employed as ‘tiny teachers’ in classrooms as part of a pioneering programme to reduce levels of problem behaviour in schools.

Roots of Empathy is being rolled out in six primary schools in the Cumnock area – Barshare, Greenmill, Logan, Muirkirk, Netherthird and St John’s. Babies and parents will come into classrooms over the course of the school year to allow pupils to observe the caring relationship between them.

The programme aims to reduce aggressive behaviour by encouraging children to interact in a nurturing manner.

Six baby volunteers – each aged four months – have been recruited from local communities to take part in the programme. With their parents, the ‘tiny teachers’ will take part in nine visits to primary three classes. Sessions will be led by trained staff from East Ayrshire Council and Action for Children.

Independent evaluations of a similar programme in Canada revealed a significant increase in peer acceptance in 74% of children and a decrease in social aggression in 39% of children.

Kay Gilmour, Head of Community Support, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Action for Children to develop Roots of Empathy in East Ayrshire. The schools involved are looking forward to seeing the ‘tiny teachers’ grow and develop over the coming weeks and months. The programme sits very well with our approach to nurturing and we look forward to lasting benefits for the children involved.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This is a new way of helping children to understand relationships with others, to learn to work together and look after each other. I look forward to seeing how the youngsters enjoy seeing babies in the classrooms and how positively it affects their behaviour”.

Louise Warde Hunter, strategic director of children’s services at Action for Children, said: “Roots of Empathy teaches schoolchildren to understand their own feelings and the feelings of others by using a baby as the ‘tiny teacher’. This raises levels of empathy amongst classmates, resulting in more respectful relationships.”

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

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

Ends

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

Two security shutters have been installed in the waiting area to close off the Burns Mall shopping centre outside normal shop opening hours, but which . . . → Read More: Open and shut case as access is restored at bus station]]> The installation of new shutters in the waiting areas at Kilmarnock Bus Station is the latest in a number of improvements to the bus station facilities in recent months.

Two security shutters have been installed in the waiting area to close off the Burns Mall shopping centre outside normal shop opening hours, but which will ensure that passengers still have full direct access to the bus station in the evenings.

Unveiling the shutters earlier this week, Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Community Safety said: “Kilmarnock Bus Station is the gateway into the town for many and East Ayrshire Council continues to work closely with partner agencies, Strathclyde Police, Stagecoach and Burns Mall security, to make the bus station a safe and pleasant environment for all passengers.

“These shutters are the perfect solution for providing access to the bus station in the evenings. There is now direct access to and from the bus station in the evenings, which is safe and secure, and fully accessible in the spirit of the Equality Act, 2010.”

Hugh Colville, Operation Managers, Burns Mall welcomed the shutter installation. He said: “We’ve already seen a significant decline in antisocial behaviour incidents thanks to the improved lighting, increased CCTV surveillance and the presence of a dedicated Burns Mall security guard within the waiting room and I am confident that with these improved evening access arrangements this trend will continue.”

Also attending the unveiling of the shutters were:
Councillor Douglas Reid, John Bryson, Head of Roads and Transportation, Barry McDonnell, Road and Transportation, Nathan Stanislawski, Stagecoach Operations Manager, Kilmarnock, David Crews, Burns Mall, Fiona Davidson and John McFarlane, Strathclyde Police, and Inspector Annette Morrison, Strathclyde Police.

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Primary 5c children were fed up with cars speeding around the campus, on surrounding streets and near school entrances, as well as parking in parts of the playground . . . → Read More: ‘We want parents to slow down’]]> So concerned were youngsters at a local primary school about dangerous drivers, that they decided to take matters into their own hands to make culprits think.

Primary 5c children were fed up with cars speeding around the campus, on surrounding streets and near school entrances, as well as parking in parts of the playground where they shouldn’t. The Parents Council had also raised concerns about the antics of some drivers.

Pupils Luke Dickson and Sean Houston organised a campaign to make the campus a safer place. They persuaded the other schools sharing the campus – Grange Academy, Park School and Gargieston Primary – to join them in their mission.

With backing from campus cop PC Andy Murray, the youngsters made a poster for display in schools and local shops. They also wrote letters to parents and met with the Community Council – all of whom are supporting their cause.

The pupils are campaigning for measures such as bigger and better road signs and improved speed bumps, to encourage drivers to slow down and be more aware of children walking or cycling to and from school.

Luke Dickson said: “We just want parents to slow down”.

Primary 5 teacher Graeme Crossley said: “Some drivers are just not taking enough care. The speed limit within the campus is 5 mph and they are not sticking to it. There have been cases of parents double-parking, parking in disabled spaces, blocking roadways and even being abusive to staff who have asked them to move on”.

Annanhill Primary headteacher Jacqueline Hanlon added: “I’m delighted that our two junior road safety officers Luke and Sean are spearheading this campaign to make our school grounds safer. We’ve had tremendous support from the other schools, parents and indeed the whole community”.

Councillor Iain Linton, Depute Leader of the Council, said: “All we need now is for all drivers in and around the school campus to obey the rules and take more care. Fortunately, many parents and visitors already do, but absolutely everyone needs to buy into this.

“It is common sense – and everyone’s priority is to look after our young people and keep them safe from harm”.

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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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Grange Academy’s S3 Duke of Edinburgh (D of E) class decided to add their own special touch to the Blythswood Care Christmas shoebox appeal that the school was already involved in. Instead of . . . → Read More: Big-hearted youngsters sing out for Christmas cheer]]> Kids at a local secondary decided to put their vocal talents to good use to help others enjoy a better Christmas.

Grange Academy’s S3 Duke of Edinburgh (D of E) class decided to add their own special touch to the Blythswood Care Christmas shoebox appeal that the school was already involved in. Instead of contributing directly to the shoeboxes, the class decided to raise money that would help with costs of shipping the boxes, filled with small gifts, to children and adults in need in Eastern Europe.

Teacher Paul McGurn said: “It was evident through the skills and volunteering choices made by the pupils for their bronze award that there was a great collection of musical talent in the class. The young people decided to produce their own Band Aid style singles, complete with music video. They chose ‘Sing’ by My Chemical Romance and ‘Chasing Cars’ by Snow Patrol”.

Local music production company 12inch Audio handled the recording of the songs and video.

The whole class was involved in the recording process and had a strong influence on the theme of the video. The artwork for the CD was selected by 12inch Audio, after a class competition, won by talented student Todd Barrie.

Grange Academy headteacher Fred Wildridge said: “Two hundred cds were pressed and subsequent sales have so far raised over £250, with less than 20 copies remaining. We asked for a donation of £2 per cd.

“This represents a fantastic achievement for a single class and highlights a fine example of our schoolchildren working together with the Council’s Community Learning and Development team, as well as local business partners”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This worthwhile initiative will not only bring Christmas cheer to needy people in the shape of the Shoebox Appeal, but has also benefited the young people involved.

“They have developed their creative skills through working with professionals and have learned to work together as a team, to help others in the global community”.

Danny Muschate, Blythswood Care’s Head of Fundraising, said: “It never fails to amaze me how much joy a simple shoebox can bring to children and adults alike. Everyday items that seem so small to us – a new hat and scarf, a toothbrush with some toothpaste, a small toy, some soap – bring great joy to thousands of people who live in desperate poverty”.

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

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.”

As official adopters of Yang Guang and Tian Tian, pupils from Loudoun Academy were given an exclusive preview of . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire kids greet their panda ‘children’]]> People from all over the UK are flocking to see the amazing Giant Pandas now in residence at Edinburgh Zoo – but a group of East Ayrshire youngsters has pipped them all at the post!

As official adopters of Yang Guang and Tian Tian, pupils from Loudoun Academy were given an exclusive preview of their panda ‘children’ last Thursday, before Scotland’s hottest new arrivals went on show to a frantic public on Friday, amidst scenes of panda-monium as hundreds queued.

The Galston school’s Fast Track 2010 class adopted the eight-year-old pandas on Chinese New Year in February 2011 as part of a modern studies project, while the exotic bears were still in China. The pandas will spend the next 10 years at the zoo, 5,000 miles from their previous home in Ya’an reserve, Chengdu.

The kids have been bamboozled by Yang Guang and Tian Tian’s sudden meteoric rise to international stardom – yet delighted by the opportunities their bear connection now offers.

Teacher Julia Preston, who accompanied the eight pupils on their 100 mile round-trip to Edinburgh, said: “We had an amazing time and were treated as honoured guests by the zoo.

“I initially received a letter inviting just two people to view the pandas before they went public. I wrote to ask if the organisers would consider nine tickets, as I hadn’t the heart to tell the kids that some would not be able to go. Luckily, the zoo agreed!”

The youngsters worked with the zoo’s education team to make sensory toys containing tasty snacks for some of the animals, including purple-faced leaf monkeys of Sri Lanka and Negros Island Warty Pigs.

But the highlight of the day was their first amazing sight of the dark-eyed, cuddly creatures. Male Yang Guang and female Tian Tian were bearing up in their new surroundings – but were viewed separately by the youngsters.

The pandas have to be kept apart till their brief breeding season – just two days of the year – in February. Until then, the pandas can only peek at each other through a hole in the wall which separates them in their new £300,000 enclosure.

So impressed were the youngsters with the pandas that they are now working to raise funds to help sun bears of Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos – so-called because of the yellow crescents on their chests – who are often ill-treated in their native lands. The kids hope to adopt the zoo’s sun bears, for whom they previously collected 30 jars of honey.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “The young people’s close involvement with these famous pandas is continuing to provide them with excellent opportunities to put into practice much of what they have learned about animals and other cultures.

“This type of learning outside school, working with experts, is exactly what is recommended by Curriculum for Excellence, helping make young people more confident, successful learners, developing into responsible citizens with a knowledge of the wider world”.

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

East Ayrshire Council has been working to a scheduled 5-year Housing . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire Council houses set for face lift]]> Today East Ayrshire Council set its revenue budget for 2012/13 ahead of the rest of Scotland and one of the key pledges made by Leader, Councillor Douglas Reid, was a commitment to continue to improve the quality of housing in East Ayrshire.

East Ayrshire Council has been working to a scheduled 5-year Housing Improvement Plan, to bring all homes in the area up to the standard set out in the Scottish Housing Quality Standard by 2015, with thousands of properties benefitting from new bathroom and kitchen installations, rewiring and central heating upgrades, and window and door replacements.

The pledge made by Councillor Reid today to launch an external enhancement programme will ensure investment in the exteriors of council houses.

Councillor Reid explained: “To complement the work which has been undertaken to improve the interiors of Council housing stock, I have asked officers to bring forward options for a programme of scheduled enhancements to our council houses and these will include replacing worn and weathered roughcasting and guttering as well as exterior paint work.

“In recent years we have focussed on improving the energy efficiency of our tenants’ homes, to help them keep maintenance and fuel costs down. But we know that communities react positively to improvements to their environment, and the plans I have asked officers to develop will have this in mind.”

The planned programme of exterior improvements will commence on 1 April 2012.

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In recent years, East Ayrshire Council has been working hard to reduce the amount of . . . → Read More: Bulky uplifts for free in East Ayrshire]]> Today East Ayrshire Council set its revenue budget for 2012/13 ahead of the rest of Scotland and one of the key pledges made by Leader, Councillor Douglas Reid, was the removal of charges for householders requesting a bulky uplift.

In recent years, East Ayrshire Council has been working hard to reduce the amount of waste being sent to landfill and householders are provided with a range of vessels to encourage them to recycle paper, glass, tins, plastics, garden and kitchen waste.

In addition the Council operates two recycling centres which are open seven days a week to accommodate local demand.

Consequently, there has been a significant drop in landfill usage, and this in turn has led to a reduction in the landfill tax due by the Council.

Councillor Reid explained: “Financially, times are tough at the moment and, in some instances, people could be tempted to abandon bulky items rather than pay for their safe disposal. We are committed to protecting the environment and providing households with bulky uplifts free of charge is further evidence and encouragement for our communities.”

The free service will come into effect from 1 April 2012.

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Members will be invited to attend the meeting on 24 January 2012 at 7pm in Galston Primary School. . . . → Read More: Galston Community Development Trust takes shape]]> Galston’s regeneration is taking a big step forward in the New Year when the new Galston Community Development Trust will meet to approve its constitution and register as a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Institution.

Members will be invited to attend the meeting on 24 January 2012 at 7pm in Galston Primary School. The meeting is the culmination of months of meetings and planning aimed at giving the people of Galston the chance to get involved in shaping the future of their town.

A steering group comprising community representatives, selected by the community was set up in September and was supported by East Ayrshire Council officials. They have formulated a constitution, code of conduct and an outline activities plan for the Community Development Trust. The new Trust will formally approve these plans which will then be submitted to the charities regulator, OSCR for official approval. This process can take up to three months.

In the meantime the new Trust will have a full agenda.  The steering group is already planning a series of events to determine what kind of regeneration projects residents and traders wish to see in the town. The results of the community engagement will provide the basis for a master plan of future projects. These priority projects will have the potential to attract funding from bodies such as the Lottery and Scottish Natural Heritage.

East Ayrshire Council Spokesperson for delivering Community Regeneration, Councillor Robert McDill said: ‘It has been great to see this Trust coming together with the support and hard work of local people. From the very first consultation meeting we’ve been heartened by the interest people have in the heritage and future of Galston. Those who join the Trust will have a unique opportunity to have an input into the way Galston develops. Members will elect the management board of the Trust and will work together to select and implement future Trust projects.

“None of the work so far would have been possible without the support of the wider community. We hope that they will continue to support the Trust’s efforts and actively contribute to enhancing the future of  Galston as a place to work, shop and live.”

Membership of the Trust is free and open to anyone who lives or works in Galston or supports the aims of the development trust. If you are interested in becoming a member and attending the meetings contact Sylvia Allen on 01563 578168 or Colin McKee on 01563 576759.

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The cook-off was for S3 pupils studying Home Economics/Hospitality. In schools, budding chefs prepared a main course for two on a budget of no . . . → Read More: It’s a cook-off!]]> Eighteen youngsters from secondary schools across East Ayrshire recently competed in a hard-fought competition at The Cook School Scotland, in a bid to win a place in the all-Ayrshire final.

The cook-off was for S3 pupils studying Home Economics/Hospitality. In schools, budding chefs prepared a main course for two on a budget of no more than £5. Top two from each school were selected to compete in the East Ayrshire heat.

And the fab four who made it through against stiff culinary competition to represent East Ayrshire in the final were Emily Hood, 13 (Grange Academy), Shannon Gallacher, 14 (Loudoun Academy), Amy Gibson, 14 (Doon Academy) and Lauren McNaughton, 14 (Cumnock Academy).

The girls will return to Cook School in January to pick up tips and ideas from top chefs, before the final, when they will compete in the kitchen against six pupils from North and South Ayrshire for the master chef trophy.

Craig Stevenson, managing director of Braehead Foods, said: “This was an exciting opportunity for young people to work with and learn from experienced chefs”.

Craig is one of the business leaders backing the Council’s £1 million business enterprise programme in secondary schools, which aims to help make pupils ready for the world of work.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: “It was a great pleasure to see the very high standard of results. I know the chefs were impressed by all the young people, who coped extremely well in new surroundings and prepared delicious dishes on limited budgets.

“This partnership between schools and mentor Craig Stevenson is an example of the type of initiative which will help make our pupils more business-ready – by working in real-life situations with the best in the business.

“Thanks also to Tesco for sponsoring our pupils in this exciting competition”.

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

Provost Stephanie Young enjoyed an early Christmas lunch with a group of adult carers at Dalmellington House recently.

The lunch was expertly prepared by young trainees who have been preparing Christmas lunches for carers every day since 14 November and will keep up the good work until 20 December.

After . . . → Read More: Carers’ Christmas lunch at Dalmellington House]]>

Provost Stephanie Young enjoyed an early Christmas lunch with a group of adult carers at Dalmellington House recently.

The lunch was expertly prepared by young trainees who have been preparing Christmas lunches for carers every day since 14 November and will keep up the good work until 20 December.

After lunch, Lillian Meikle from Moscow Community Hall Committee handed over a cheque for £300 to Carer Centre Manager Jane Smith that will be used to support young carers. The money was raised through a Fun Day that was organised in support of ‘The Wee Ride’, which saw motorcyclists making a 6,500 mile round trip from Moscow to East Ayrshire to Moscow, Russia in aid of charity.

Lillian also had the chance to see how some vases that she’d donated to Dalmellington House looked in their new surroundings. They had belonged to a cousin of her father and when she mentioned to Provost Young that she had nowhere to put them, the Provost knew immediately where they would fit in!

Provost Young said: “The young trainees served us a delightful Christmas lunch – I understand that they’ve had plenty of practice at it over the last few weeks! They are all gaining valuable experience of working in a kitchen and front-of-house, while the carers get to enjoy an excellent lunch, so there are great benefits all round.”

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The budget proposals . . . → Read More: Early budget helps Council plan ahead]]> Today East Ayrshire Council set its revenue budget for 2012/13 ahead of the rest of Scotland. The early decision was made possible by a continuous, prudent and common sense approach adopted by managers and services throughout the year and is designed to help the Council plan for the challenging times ahead.

The budget proposals agreed today rely on savings from a total of management actions which will avoid closures and on using in-year savings achieved from a range of initiatives including a root and branch review of management structures; a teacher refresh scheme; enabling more people to stay in their community rather than residential care homes and improvements in refuse collection and recycling.

Leader of East Ayrshire Council, Councillor Douglas Reid explained: “As soon as the last budget was approved in February we started planning for this one and concluding it now means we have more time to implement our decisions and, importantly, officers have more time to develop options to make changes for the future.

“The challenging financial position facing the public sector is not going away; our government grant is £1million less than last year and our operational costs continue to increase, but despite this, we remain committed to protecting our key services and our communities.”

In presenting the new budget the Leader announced plans for a new programme of external enhancement for existing council house stock, to complement the improvements already scheduled as part of the Scottish Housing Quality Standard project, and he confirmed that council house rent increases will remain below inflation at £1.99. He said he expected no changes in previously agreed grant funding for voluntary and social sector partners to enable them to start planning for the year ahead, and he announced that from April 2012, householders would no longer
be charged for bulky uplifts.

“We want to work together with the NHS to shift the balance of expenditure from reactive spend to preventative spend. Spending a little now can save a lot in the future and this includes, for example, the development of leisure and sports facilities.”

He concluded: “This budget gives us the time to plan, time to prepare and time to identify the kind of changes we will need to make over the next few years as a new Council after the May elections.”

Notes:

East Ayrshire has agreed to the following local commitments in order to secure the maximum settlement from the Scottish Government:

1. Maintain council tax freeze
2. Maintain teacher numbers in line with
   pupils
3. Secure places for all probationers under
   the teacher induction scheme
4. Pass on full share of funding to Police
   Boards in line with existing levels, to help maintain the number of Police
   Officers.

Budget proposals

• East Ayrshire Council’s Revenue Budget
  for 2012/13 is £343 million
• Expect to receive £236.572million in
  Government Grant
• Band D Council Tax will remain at
  £1188.99
• No plans to alter previously agreed
  Capital Programme
• In some cases services have chosen to
  limit prices increases or indeed reduce charges for services to stimulate
  demand
• In Waste Management, Bulky Household
  Uplifts will be free (currently £15)
• Rent will increase by £1.99 over 52
  weeks
• Increase of £0.16 over 52 weeks for
  lockups and £1.19 per annum for garage sites.

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Carrie McLean, 13, travelled to Dunfermline’s Abbeyview Indoor Bowling Club to play in a trial match for the Scotland under-25 team. Carrie’s club – Auchinleck Indoor Bowling Club – had put . . . → Read More: Carrie’s just bowling along]]> Auchinleck Academy celebrated yet another sporting success recently, when a second year pupil was selected to play for the national indoor bowling team.

Carrie McLean, 13, travelled to Dunfermline’s Abbeyview Indoor Bowling Club to play in a trial match for the Scotland under-25 team. Carrie’s club – Auchinleck Indoor Bowling Club – had put her forward for consideration.

After four hours of play against stiff competition, Carrie learned she had made the Scotland squad – and that she will be travelling to Bristol in the New Year to play in the under-25 international series.

Auchinleck Academy headteacher Peter Gilchrist said: “We are all very proud of Carrie’s achievement. Being selected for a national squad at such a young age is excellent and bodes well for her future sporting career”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Congratulations to Carrie on making the Scotland indoor bowling team. She is a credit to the whole school and the local community, who have supported her all the way and, I’m sure, will continue to do so”.

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

The week was a big hit, with parties for children and parents in Rankinston, Drongan and . . . → Read More: Fun and games for national youth week]]> Youngsters in Cumnock and Doon Valley area had a busy – but fun – time recently, as East Ayrshire Council’s Community Learning and Development (CLD) youth projects team put on lots of activities for National Youth Work Week.

The week was a big hit, with parties for children and parents in Rankinston, Drongan and Ochiltree. Everyone was dressed for the occasion and joined in the fun and party games.

Bellsbank youth project team enjoyed a traditional games night, while young people in Netherthird joined in energetic Ydance sessions.

East Ayrshire youth committee Inspired Youths led a fun teambuilding night – and are now planning a music festival for East Ayrshire.

The theme of ‘bringing the community together’ provided the perfect opportunity to illustrate the positive difference young people can make to their communities.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “The CLD team always works hard to inspire everyone in the community to join in activities and to take up learning tailored to suit their individual circumstances and requirements.

“I’m delighted at the turnout for these recent events and I look forward to seeing more in the future”.

CLD offers a wide range of learning opportunities for adults and young people. For more information, please call 01290 428430.

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

Alison Lochhead was more than a colleague to the staff of the Palace Theatre in Kilmarnock – she was one in a million.

And when she died at the age of 42, her friends decided to raise money in her memory for the charity Bowel & Cancer Research. That’s why the audiences at . . . → Read More: Colleagues raise panto cash in memory of Alison]]>

Alison Lochhead was more than a colleague to the staff of the Palace Theatre in Kilmarnock – she was one in a million.

And when she died at the age of 42, her friends decided to raise money in her memory for the charity Bowel & Cancer Research.
That’s why the audiences at this year’s pantomime Cinderella are being asked to put money into a collecting bucket at the end of the show.

Alison, from Kilmarnock, was diagnosed with cancer whilst on maternity leave in 2008. She returned to work after treatment, but died in February 2011. Her daughter was only two years old.

“We were all devastated,” said Palace Complex Manager Janice Gilmour. “Alison was very bubbly and incredibly organised. She was always coming up with fresh ideas and had the personality to make them work. We miss her hugely.”

Before becoming an administration assistant, Alison had performed on the Palace stage with the Loudoun Musical Society, starring in South Pacific.

Her love of theatre has inspired her colleagues to arrange a variety show at the Palace Theatre in February 2012. Called ‘Musical Memory – an Evening for Alison’, it will star her old friends from Loudoun Musical Society, and her Palace colleagues will also do a turn. Liam Dolan, who plays Buttons in Cinderella, has offered to compere.

The first bucket collection was held at the pantomime gala night on 26 November when Alison’s family were in the audience. The show ends on December 30.

A spokeswoman for Bowel & Cancer Research thanked Janice and all at the Palace for their backing. “Bowel cancer affects 38,000 people in the UK every year. Our aim is to make sure that more people survive in future, and the support of everyone in Kilmarnock is invaluable,” she said.

Anyone who wants to support the collection in memory of Alison can contact Janice Gilmour on 01563 578156.

www.bowelcancerresearch.org

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The conference was well attended by many older people from across East Ayrshire and delegates were provided with reports on . . . → Read More: Older People’s Conference]]> The ninth annual Older People’s Conference took place at East Ayrshire Council Headquarters recently which aimed to help older people become more involved in the ongoing improvement of services which affect them.

The conference was well attended by many older people from across East Ayrshire and delegates were provided with reports on how the Scottish Government’s Reshaping Care programme is progressing within East Ayrshire. This included information on the development of joint integrated services across the local authority, health, and the voluntary and independent sectors.

Some fun was added to the proceedings with a ‘Big East Ayrshire quiz’ and a bit of armchair Zumba as well!

Councillor John MacKay, Spokesperson for Community Health and Wellbeing, said: “The feedback from the delegates was extremely positive and those who attended all seem to be very happy with the direction the Council and its partners are taking in shaping services for older people.”

Provost Stephanie Young added: “The annual conference gives our older citizens an opportunity to discuss issues that matter most to them. One point they did raise was the misconception of elderly people being perceived as stubborn – not so I was told – “we are independent”, they informed me. They are a remarkable group and I wish them all the best for the future.”

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Each school taking part represented an Olympic country and the festival, held in Kilmarnock College Centre of Sporting Excellence, began with the playing of the various . . . → Read More: Youngsters on track for Olympic fun and games]]> One hundred and twenty primary school children were fired with enthusiasm at the recent ‘Flames’ festival organised by Active Schools in the lead-up to the 2012 Olympic Games.

Each school taking part represented an Olympic country and the festival, held in Kilmarnock College Centre of Sporting Excellence, began with the playing of the various national anthems while youngsters, dressed in the colours of their adopted country, paraded waving flags and banners.

Kirkstyle primary school represented Japan, Mount Carmel – Chile, New Farm – Romania, Silverwood – Switzerland, St Andrew’s – Greece and Mauchline – Ethiopia.

College students manned seven fun-filled activity stations themed with Olympic values of respect, excellence, friendship, determination, courage, inspiration and equality.

As part of the ‘Flames’ programme, 21 Advanced NC sports coaching students previously visited the six schools and gave youngsters taster sessions in a wide range of sports, games and skills activities, such as throwing and catching.

Active Schools Co-ordinator Gordon Cunningham said: “The festival was a great success. There were no winners or losers – this was purely a festival for fun, to encourage the youngsters’ participation in sports”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This was an excellent way for youngsters to enjoy themselves and get physically active, whilst trying out new sports that will be part of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

“As a result of the festival and the coaching the children have received, it is hoped pupils will go on to take up the various sports experienced in taster sessions, either after school or in the community”.

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

And Onthank Primary – which goes under the banner of Brazil – emerged victorious, with Nether Robertland (Kazakhstan) second and Kirkstyle (Japan) in . . . → Read More: Basketball stars rock on to the final]]> Eight schools battled it out at a basketball festival last week at Kilmarnock College’s Centre for Sporting Excellence, the first ‘finals’ event following the launch of the East Ayrshire Olympics programme.

And Onthank Primary – which goes under the banner of Brazil – emerged victorious, with Nether Robertland (Kazakhstan) second and Kirkstyle (Japan) in third place.

Other primary schools which took part, having all qualified from regional events, were Annanhill, Auchinleck, Dalmellington, Hurlford and Netherthird.

Glasgow Rocks players Sterling Davis and EJ Harrison came to cheer on the young finalists and gave prizes to male and female most valuable players (MVPs) Euan Reid, Nether Robertland and Holly Hart, Netherthird.

Sportsmanship awards went to Daniel Wood, Kirkstyle and Jennifer White, Annanhill. The MVPs won match tickets and mascot packages, where they will be mascots leading the Rocks team out to a game. Sportsmanship winners also won match tickets.

Councillors Kathy Morrice and Maureen McKay came along to watch the final and to award medals.

Active Schools Co-ordinator Laura Wallace said: “The festival went very well, thanks to a very supportive group of students from Kilmarnock College, who refereed and helped the children. The youngsters really got into the spirit of the event by dressing in their countries’ colours and carrying flags”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This festival formed part of our run-up to the Olympics for schools. As well as gaining medals, the children who competed in the basketball festival have earned extra points for the overall medal table which is being kept throughout the year. I look forward to seeing how the different schools progress”.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing, said: “It was great to see so many schoolchildren from across East Ayrshire taking part in sporting activity. This Active Schools initiative really is encouraging more young people to be more active, more often and the Olympics link fits perfectly with the aims of Curriculum for Excellence”.

Next event in the East Ayrshire Olympics calendar is badminton where, again, regional events will take place before another grand final at the end of January.

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

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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English teacher Lesley Moore’s S4 class – average age 15 – at James Hamilton Academy worked together to win the recent nationwide Story Generator competition sponsored by the Edinburgh . . . → Read More: Young writing winners are a class act]]> A local secondary school is celebrating scooping top prize in a national writing competition – thanks to an amazing team effort by a whole class.

English teacher Lesley Moore’s S4 class – average age 15 – at James Hamilton Academy worked together to win the recent nationwide Story Generator competition sponsored by the Edinburgh International Book Festival and Scottish Power.

Each pupil contributed a sentence in the class’s winning tale. Using the first line of Julie Bertagna’s novel Zenith, pupils were asked to use their imagination by adding one sentence to take the story forward.

The opening line was: “Out on the world’s ocean, night is a black war-horse. The white ship bucks upon it like a ghost rider with no reins”.

Entries from all over Scotland were judged by the author Julie Bertagna herself, along with representatives from the Book Festival and Scottish Power. The finalists’ stories were read to the winners of the junior competition – Port Ellen primary school on Islay – who also judged the James Hamilton story to be best.

The school prize is a donation of books from the Edinburgh International Book Festival. As an added surprise, the pupil who wrote the best individual line of the class story wins a Kindle – and his/her name will be revealed at the very last minute during the prizegiving – planned for next week – on stage during school assembly.

Teacher Lesley Moore said: “We were all delighted with our win. The author Julie Bertagna was so impressed with the quality of the writing that she also selected other pupils to receive signed copies of her book as rewards”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This was an intriguing challenge, as the young people had to focus not only on themselves, but on working together as a team towards the best possible outcome.

“The story they produced was judged to be the best in Scotland and this is an achievement to be celebrated by the young writers, their teacher and indeed the whole school”.

The Scottish Power Story Generator competition is sponsored by Scottish Power and the Edinburgh International Book Festival

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

Councillors, business leaders and members of the local community enjoyed a film presentation and whistle-stop tour round James Hamilton Academy’s new business and skills bases last week . . . → Read More: Pupils get ready for world of work]]> Students at a local secondary school delighted guests with their drive and enthusiasm for learning brand new skills to help prepare them for the world of work.

Councillors, business leaders and members of the local community enjoyed a film presentation and whistle-stop tour round James Hamilton Academy’s new business and skills bases last week – and the whole event was organised and led by the young people themselves.

Pupils were celebrating the formal launch of their new Business and Skills Enterprise Centre (BESC) complete with high-tech engineering and media equipment, funded by the Council’s £1 million Business Enterprise Fund.

Head Teacher Janis Teale said: “We have been fortunate to receive over £100,000 and without that, these new courses could not be delivered. They are not rehashed existing programmes, but brand new courses to address skills gaps, so that young people can leave school with qualifications they need to get jobs”.

Pupils showed off their work in painting and decorating, digital media and engineering. They also took visitors on a tour of the highly popular school shop, ‘Jimmy Express Supplies’, which they run, helping them understand finance and how to run a business.

Fourteen S3 and seven S6 pupils are taking part in this pilot year of the course, but in future years it will be open to all.

As well as six standard grades, the students will gain SQA qualifications in Construction Crafts, Digital Media, Engineering and Steps to Work, as well as Junior Sports Leader Awards.

As well as developing skills, the courses are having a very positive effect on young people’s attitudes and behaviour.

Gavin Mason, S3, said: “I’ve been learning new skills like working on the computer and how to lead a class. I’ve developed personal skills, such as how to behave and getting to class on time”.

Gemma McKinnon, S3, said: “My favourite course has been painting and decorating. I’m learning how to work with people and I’m building up my confidence”.

Arran Wilson, S3, said: “I work better with others now. This is something I struggled with last year. I’m enjoying all my courses and I have 100% attendance this year. I’d like a job when I leave school”.

Headteacher Janis Teale said: “Arran and some of the other pupils have found a purpose in education that maybe was not there for them before”.

Attending the event, Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “I was extremely impressed not only by the skills displayed by pupils and by objects such as snow shovels which they had made for sale – but also by their knowledge and understanding of the courses and their relevance to their future employment”.

“This pupil-led, hands-on way of working is to be commended and even though it’s early days, the signs of success are already there for all to see”.

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

Senior pupils organised a very successful ‘Wear It Pink’ day to raise money for Breast Cancer Research. Young people and staff took part in a sponsored dance, while some brave male . . . → Read More: Auchinleck youngsters in the pink]]> Pink was the colour of the day in school recently, as Auchinleck Academy pupils and teachers pulled out all the stops for charity.

Senior pupils organised a very successful ‘Wear It Pink’ day to raise money for Breast Cancer Research. Young people and staff took part in a sponsored dance, while some brave male teachers and seniors got their legs publicly waxed and senior pupils wore fancy dress.

To add to the fun, youngsters enjoyed face painting and bright pink cakes were on sale – making for a very colourful day.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Thanks to the efforts of all at Auchinleck Academy, a grand total of £971 was raised for this very worthwhile cause. Well done to the senior pupils for working as a team to organise this event and making such a valuable contribution”.

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

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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The exotic bears were adopted in February this year by a group of Loudoun Academy schoolchildren as part of a modern . . . → Read More: Panda-monium at local school… from China with love]]> Panda fever has hit a bamboo-zled Scotland with the arrival of Sunshine and Sweetie in Edinburgh Zoo, but no one is more delighted than their proud ‘parents’ – who live in East Ayrshire.

The exotic bears were adopted in February this year by a group of Loudoun Academy schoolchildren as part of a modern studies project – and there’s a plaque on front of the new £300,000 state-of-the-art panda enclosure which says so, for all to see.

Julia Preston, support for learning teacher at the Galston school, said: “We were looking at imaginative ways for the children in the S2 Fast Track group to do outdoor education. At the same time, pupils were studying China in Modern Studies. I read about how animals can aid learning in children – so it all came together when I looked at the Edinburgh Zoo website and read about China’s favourite animals – the giant pandas”.

With the help of the zoo’s education department and the Scottish Chinese Education Network (SCEN), the Loudoun kids officially adopted the cuddly creatures – Chinese names Yang Guang and Tian Tian – on Chinese New Year 2011 and received a certificate from the zoo.

Julia said:” I arranged for the zoo to phone me when I had the class in front of me, to break the news that we had officially adopted the pandas.

“We made a big day of it at school on the Chinese New Year – the Year of the Rabbit – which began in mid-February, when the full moon appeared. Our pupils celebrated the event by learning how to use chopsticks, make lanterns and lucky money wallets, as well as studying Chinese calligraphy and tasting lucky candy and fortune cookies.

“Mrs Yang, Chinese language teacher from Grange Academy’s Confucius Hub, visited Loudoun and taught the children some Mandarin. As part of the cultural experience, we also learned about the moon festival and the Chinese horoscope”.

Barry Hutchinson, Sifu of Four Seasons Wing Chun Gung Fu gave pupils kung fu lessons and demonstrated the famous Lion Dance. Youngsters got in on the act, playing the drums and trying on the lion’s head.

The Fast Track group of nine pupils also visited Edinburgh Zoo in March and gave a talk to an audience of 250 people about endangered animals in China and Scotland.

But the best is yet to come – for the youngsters, who are now in S3 and known as the Top Gear group, plan to travel to Edinburgh to celebrate Chinese New Year on 23 January with their panda ‘children’, who have travelled 5,000 miles from Chengdu.

Said Julia: “2012 will be the Year of the Dragon, which is the most important year in the Chinese calendar, so we’re looking forward to a really fantastic day”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “All of these events and new experiences of learning outwith the school are exactly what is recommended in Curriculum for Excellence, to give young people opportunities to be more confident in the outside world, to show that they can be responsible citizens and to encourage a ‘can-do’ attitude”.

“The young people’s close involvement with these internationally famous pandas will continue to provide the pupils with the opportunity to put into practice much of what they have learned”.

The pandas will go on display on December 16, but will be kept apart till the breeding season in February – after which, with any luck, the Loudoun pupils could become adoptive ‘grandparents’ of the UK’s first panda cubs.

See www.rzsspanda.org.uk/ for further info.

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

A group of third year pupils recently created a huge, colourful mural for the school dining hall as part of a health & wellbeing / art project.

Budding young artists Emily Robinson, Eve Parker, Gemma Smith, Claire . . . → Read More: Healthy showing for Auchinleck art]]> Pupils at Auchinleck Academy are getting arty… and their talent is on display for all to see.

A group of third year pupils recently created a huge, colourful mural for the school dining hall as part of a health & wellbeing / art project.

Budding young artists Emily Robinson, Eve Parker, Gemma Smith, Claire Corrigan, Lana Medhurst and Sophie Reid wanted to get across a healthy eating message. They came up with the slogan ‘A Healthy Lunch packs a Healthy Punch’ for the centre of their artwork.

The pupils sketched out ideas to show fruit and vegetables cascading from a basket, using a combination of realistic and cartoon styles to create interesting images and to balance the composition.

Measuring eight feet square and made up of acrylic paint on MDF panels, the mural took six weeks to complete, with pupils and teachers often working after school.

Headteacher Peter Gilchrist said: “The six artists had never worked on this kind of scale before and they responded very well to this big creative challenge.

“The mural has really helped to create a better environment for pupils who take packed lunches in Auchinleck Academy and has boosted the confidence of our art pupils who created the work”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This mural is a great piece of work that will enhance the dining room and at the same time put across a healthy eating message. The youngsters obviously bonded as a team on this project and evidence of their skill and talent is there for all to see”.

The young art team said they loved designing the mural and watching their ideas come to life as they painted and hoped it would inspire people to eat more healthily. They enjoyed being given the responsibility and being able to create something special for the school.

Supported by a thriving art department, other artistic pupils competed in a recent mask competition in the school and even gave up their lunchtimes to work on some amazing mask designs. Winners were Katie Allaun , Nikki Collins and Martin McLelland, who designed their own masks during lunch breaks.

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

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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Medal winners were: Rebecca Morrison: 12 & under 50m freestyle – gold & 12 & under 50m butterfly – gold Rosie Wynne: 15/16 yrs 100m breaststroke – gold & 15/16yrs 200m breaststroke – . . . → Read More: Young swimmers in championship splash]]> Fifteen young Auchinleck Academy swimmers competed in the recent hard-fought Ayrshire Schools Swimming Championships – resulting in some magnificent individual performances.

Medal winners were:
Rebecca Morrison: 12 & under 50m freestyle – gold & 12 & under 50m butterfly – gold
Rosie Wynne: 15/16 yrs 100m breaststroke – gold & 15/16yrs 200m breaststroke – gold
Rachael Howie: 15/16 yrs 100m backstroke – bronze
Cameron Maguire: 15/16 yrs 100m backstroke – gold
Alexander Leventakis: 17/19 yrs 100m breaststroke – silver

An amazing performance from Rosie Wynne also saw her achieving the qualifying time for consideration for the Scottish Schools Championships in both the 100m and 200m breaststroke.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Congratulations to these talented young athletes for their outstanding success in the Ayrshire Schools Swimming Championships.

“Clearly the refurbished pool area in Auchinleck Academy is helping the pupils to realise their true sporting potential”.

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

Young learners of Chinese from Grange Academy competed in the regional heat of the HSBC/British Council Mandarin Chinese Speaking Competition at Newcastle University . . . → Read More: Young Chinese-speakers in X Factor challenge]]> Students from a forward-thinking Kilmarnock school showed off their linguistic skills in an X Factor-style competition on Tuesday to be in with the chance of winning an amazing trip to China.

Young learners of Chinese from Grange Academy competed in the regional heat of the HSBC/British Council Mandarin Chinese Speaking Competition at Newcastle University against 10 other schools for a place in the final at the British Museum in February 2012.

Now in its ninth year, the competition has attracted a record number of learners eager to prove their Chinese skills.

The talented youngsters competed in either the Individual Language Ability or Group Performance section. In the Individual section, contestants Caitlin Goldie and Stuart Gilroy gave a short presentation in Mandarin, translated sentences from English into Mandarin and were tested on their knowledge of Chinese culture.

In the Group Performance section, six students – Olivia Crockett, Matt Steel, Sean McCafferty, Ross Bennett, Susannah McWhirter and Rebekah Marshall – performed a play in Chinese.

The competition was part of the British Council and the HSBC Global Education Programme’s work to prepare children in the UK for life in a global society. Young people entering employment will need to be able to compete in a world where links with China – the world’s second largest economy after Japan – will be important.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “There is a very dedicated group of pupils in the Confucius Hub at Grange Academy who have been working hard with their teacher Lynette Martin on writing and performing a play and preparing solo talks.

“To have made it as far as the regional heat is a major achievement in itself, considering some of the young people have only studied Mandarin for a few months, while the third year pupils have been doing it since first year”.

Martin Davidson, Chief Executive of the British Council and fluent Chinese speaker, said: “Having a good knowledge of Mandarin Chinese has never been so important. With China recently becoming the world’s second biggest economy, our children need to understand China in all its facets if we are to be successful in working together, whether in business or in other ways in the future.”

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

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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The awards, which celebrate hard work and innovation in Scottish classrooms, are now open for nominations. Launching the awards, Dr Alasdair Allan, Minister for Learning and . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire education stars sought for national acclaim]]> Local people across East Ayrshire are being called upon to help find the area’s brightest education stars who are worthy of recognition at the Scottish Education Awards 2012.

The awards, which celebrate hard work and innovation in Scottish classrooms, are now open for nominations. Launching the awards, Dr Alasdair Allan, Minister for Learning and Skills, said: “The Scottish Education Awards are a fantastic opportunity for us to celebrate the hard work, innovation and excellence of standards of schools, teachers, headteachers and school communities across the country.

“I would encourage people across the country to take some time to nominate and reward the local schools and education professionals that make learning a rich experience, nurturing and motivating our children and young people to increase their understanding and realise their ambitions.”

People across East Ayrshire are being urged to nominate and reward local schools and education professionals at this year’s Scottish Education Awards.

The awards are open to all publicly funded schools, including secondary, primary, nursery and special schools.  There are also categories to recognise and reward the dedication of teachers, head-teachers and support staff across Scotland.

This year there are new categories, including the Active Nation Award, Parents are Partners in Learning Award and Gaelic Language and Culture in Learning.

Councillor Jim Roberts, East Ayrshire Council Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said:  “We have many examples of creativity, innovation and good practice in schools across East Ayrshire. I would like to encourage local people to put forward nominations for this year’s Scottish Education Awards. Parents, pupils, teachers or any member of the public can nominate an
educational establishment or staff member.

“In recent years, East Ayrshire schools have been very successful, reflecting the excellent practice in our classrooms and highlighting the achievements of our pupils. I look forward to similar success this year to recognise the hard work which takes place in our schools”.

Do you know a local school that shines within the community or an exemplary teacher who motivates and nurtures pupils to become confident learners?  If so, this is the opportunity to ensure that deserving schools and education stars from East Ayrshire are recognised.

For further information and to make a nomination, visit www.scottisheducationawards.co.uk or monitor the progress of the awards by visiting www.engageforeducation.org or following @engagefored on twitter.

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

The school is enthusiastic about the ambitious £1 million Business Enterprise Fund launched by East Ayrshire Council to develop enterprising skills and attitudes in . . . → Read More: New enterprise skills centre for Kilmarnock school]]> St Joseph’s Academy became the first Kilmarnock school to launch its new Business and Enterprise Skills Centre (BESC) in a bid to make its pupils more entrepreneurial and ‘business ready’.

The school is enthusiastic about the ambitious £1 million Business Enterprise Fund launched by East Ayrshire Council to develop enterprising skills and attitudes in pupils across nine East Ayrshire academies. St Joseph’s plans to build on its existing tradition of enterprise and innovation.

Guests invited to the launch event included elected members and Council officers, who were welcomed by Headteacher Alan Ward and entertained by Gabe Gunn’s singing and Ruaraidh Quinn on guitar. One of the school’s business mentors, Craig Stevenson, managing director of Braehead Foods, also enthused the young audience with his experience of setting up in business.

S1 – S3 pupils put on a marketplace event, with stalls around the assembly hall highlighting their range of business ideas.

One team had the excellent idea of setting up ‘rent-a-tie’ – so pupils in trouble from teachers for not wearing school uniform could rent one of their supply of ties for just 50p a day. It’s been so successful, the budding young entrepreneurs are now thinking of branching out pencils and rubbers.

Guests then visited the school’s new enterprise hub, which has been set up to look more like a business office than a classroom, with a reception desk, waiting area and huge Lord Sugar-type boardroom table for meetings.

S3 and S6 pupils from the new Enterprise and Employability class spoke about their proposal to set up a ‘massive’ conference event in 2013, inviting speakers and delegates from all over the world. ‘Re-Inventing the Town’ will focus on changing attitudes and perceptions about Kilmarnock and surrounding area.

David Ritson, Principal Teacher CfE and Enterprise, said: “We are aiming high. We’ll be inviting notable figures such as Alex Salmond and Prince Charles, as well as former pupils of the school who have gone out into the world and achieved success in different fields”.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: “East Ayrshire schools mean business. We’re investing £1 million in our young people’s future and have attracted backing from business leaders local and national to help make this training programme a success

“There is huge enthusiasm in St Joseph’s – and indeed all our academies – for this very ambitious programme and there is absolutely no reason why East Ayrshire should not produce more success stories like Sir Tom Hunter in years to come”.

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Hugh Ross said: “I was very impressed by the innovative ideas the youngsters had come up with, for the four businesses in the school. I look forward with interest to seeing how these ambitious plans develop over the next year.”

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

Youngsters from nearby Loanhead Primary School dug deep to plant 2,000 purple crocus bulbs in front of the Dick Institute, in support of Kilmarnock Rotary Club’s . . . → Read More: Blooming lovely show for The Dick]]> The grass area in front of a local landmark building is looking much better after its recent tidy-up – and will be bursting with beautiful blooms come spring!

Youngsters from nearby Loanhead Primary School dug deep to plant 2,000 purple crocus bulbs in front of the Dick Institute, in support of Kilmarnock Rotary Club’s ‘purple pinkie power’ campaign to free the world from polio.

When children are vaccinated against polio overseas, they have a purple stamp put on one of their little fingers, so that doctors know who has been vaccinated. Each ‘purple pinkie’ brings the world closer to making polio history.

Iain Shaw, Kilmarnock Rotary Club Primary and Special Schools Coordinator, said: “When we first started our campaign in 1985, polio was widespread throughout the world with around 350,000 new cases being reported each year.

“Now there are just four countries where it is still endemic – India, Nigeria, Afghanistan and Pakistan – with130 reported new cases this year. However, there were a further 250 cases in surrounding countries. The disease is passed from person to person and until it is eradicated, it remains just a flight away”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “As it is mainly young people who are affected by polio, it is important to increase awareness of this crippling condition amongst our pupils.

“It’s great to see even very young children turn out to help others and to learn more about the lives of less fortunate children in the wider world”.

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

In front of a packed audience, the youngsters put on a polished performance showing stunning dresses, handbags, ties, . . . → Read More: Fashion rocks at KA’s ‘Ultimate’ show]]> Gorgeous clothes, strobe lighting and banging music… not a normal scene in a school assembly hall. But that was how it looked as 40 student models strutted their stuff in Kilmarnock Academy two evenings last week.

In front of a packed audience, the youngsters put on a polished performance showing stunning dresses, handbags, ties, and amazing body armour – all created by pupils in the school’s art and design department for the ‘Ultimate Fashion Show’.

Accompanied by very professional lighting effects and a superb soundtrack featuring Lady Gaga, Rihanna and even Madonna’s Vogue, the stylish pupils drew applause and whoops of appreciation as they strode the specially bought in catwalk. Films featuring the show’s theme – The Human Body – flashed on a large screen simultaneously.

Students had designed the clothes around the body theme, focussing on topics such as blood and guts, skulls and bones and the heart – and even the models’ t-shirts highlighted this, featuring skeleton bones and blood red spatters.

Invited guests who enjoyed the fashion event included East Ayrshire Council Chief Executive Fiona Lees, Council Leader Douglas Reid, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Hugh Ross, Councillor Maureen McKay, Graham Short, Executive Director of Educational and Social Services and Marie Macklin of the Klin Group, who is a business mentor for the school.

Following the superb show, proud Headteacher Bryan Paterson invited the entire audience to view the school’s Creative Stars art exhibition in the old academy hall, where they could purchase artworks of their choice.

He said: “Year on year our art and design students produce work of the highest calibre and are recognised nationally.

“The young people created everything for this fabulous show, as well as modelling and helping organise and market the event. Our higher pupils even did the models’ hair and make-up. It’s been a terrific whole school team effort led by the art and design department to showcase the amazing, sophisticated work of our pupils”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This kind of event inspires and motivates students to design work worthy of exhibiting to the public, whilst helping to build the busy, creative, enthusiastic ethos in the art department and indeed throughout the wider community of the school”.

Former pupil Jonathan Lawson – who last year achieved the top mark for art in the whole of Scotland – returned to co-direct the show with teachers Kirsty Lee and Caroline Stewart. He said: “Kilmarnock Academy art department has taken me to London and Rome and broadened my knowledge of fashion and art. It is the reason I am currently at college, studying Fashion.

“Returning to the school to co-direct this show has been such an experience and I hope many of the kids consider fashion as a potential career path”.

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

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.”

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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.”

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The funding of £300,000 will allow the Council to build ten new affordable houses, specifically designed mainly for elderly and ambulant disabled people, at Grassyards Road in Kilmarnock. Two of the homes will be designed . . . → Read More: New council house building]]> East Ayrshire Council’s ambitious Council house building programme has been expanded thanks to funding received from the Scottish Government.

The funding of £300,000 will allow the Council to build ten new affordable houses, specifically designed mainly for elderly and ambulant disabled people, at Grassyards Road in Kilmarnock. Two of the homes will be designed and built especially for wheelchair users.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration said: “Atrium Initiatives, in conjunction with McTaggart Construction, will be building the homes on behalf of the Council and it is hoped that the project will be on site in March 2012 with the build completing in January 2013.

“I have visited tenants at the new homes built during phases 1, 2, and 3 of the building programme and I have been genuinely touched by the positive effect these homes have had on their lives. The homes are carefully designed with our tenants needs in mind and fill an important gap in the housing market locally. The Council house building programme also keeps the local building industry buoyant during this difficult economic time.”

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Funding provided to the Community Planning Partnership from the Scottish Government’s Low Carbon Vehicle Procurement Support Scheme has allowed the Council and NHS Ayrshire and Arran to purchase 9 hybridised light commercial vehicles to replace existing . . . → Read More: Latest technology brings cleaner air to East Ayrshire]]> Award winning hybrid technology vehicles are being introduced into East Ayrshire in a bid to lower carbon emissions.

Funding provided to the Community Planning Partnership from the Scottish Government’s Low Carbon Vehicle Procurement Support Scheme has allowed the Council and NHS Ayrshire and Arran to purchase 9 hybridised light commercial vehicles to replace existing fleet vans.

The hybrid drive vehicles use revolutionary technology which has been developed by Ashwood’s – the leading developer of low emission vehicles in the UK. The company uses Formula One technology to recover kinetic energy usually wasted through braking and deceleration. While the new vehicles won’t be super fast, the technology allows the vehicle to reduce emissions and fuel consumption by increasing life to the battery rather than providing more power.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Chair of the Community Planning Partnership and Leader of East Ayrshire Council said: “Through the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009, the Scottish Government has set tough targets to decarbonise vehicles by 42% by 2020. The new vehicles, which will be used by employees from our Housing Asset Service, show a potential reduction of 12tonnes of CO2 per annum and if this is realised then the Council will look to introduce further vehicles through the ongoing fleet replacement programme.”

John Wright, Director of Information and Clinical Support Services for NHS Ayrshire & Arran, commented: “This is another excellent example of partnership working between NHS Ayrshire & Arran and East Ayrshire Council to help reduce energy costs and harmful emissions. These hybrid vehicles are able to deliver CO2 reductions and fuel savings of more than 15 per cent, at a time when both organisations are looking at ways of delivering greater efficiencies, while maintaining services of the highest quality and protecting the environment at the same time.”

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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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Highlighting many aspects of school life, the amazing 23 feet by eight feet artwork features the school badge, motto, a bit of Burns, the famous clock . . . → Read More: Wall of fame for academy artists]]> The writing – and the painting – was on the wall for Kilmarnock Academy headteacher Bryan Paterson as he proudly unveiled the school’s dazzling new ‘muriel’ this week.

Highlighting many aspects of school life, the amazing 23 feet by eight feet artwork features the school badge, motto, a bit of Burns, the famous clock – and the top of a large head, representing the ‘heidie’ himself.

Bryan Paterson said: “I think it is absolutely wonderful. The talent of the artists and the high standard of work are there for all to see”.

Attending the unveiling, Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council – and no stranger to the school, as a former pupil – was suitably impressed, as were Councillors Hugh Ross and Jim Roberts, Spokespersons for Lifelong Learning.

The mural, which is situated on the wall of a corridor outside the headteacher’s room and opposite the assembly hall, was created by Advanced Higher art students Kirsty McLaughlan and Victoria Grigor. The project was originally designed just to add more colour and vibrancy into the area – but such is the quality of the work that it has also become part the Advanced Higher exam folio for both students.

Kirsty said: “We started by creating our own small designs and then brought them together to create the final piece. This is by far the biggest thing that I’ve done in my six years at the school and it will still be around long after I’ve left.”

Victoria added: “Projecting the finished design on to the wall was very difficult but all the hard work was worth it. It really does look great and is something I’ll always remember”.

Bryan Paterson commended the high standard of pupils’ work, consistently supported by dedicated staff. He said: “Kilmarnock Academy has a proud tradition of success in science, language and mathematics.

“This is also clearly a school which excels in the arts and design. Last year the top art student in the whole of Scotland, Jonathan Lawson, was a Kilmarnock Academy student and on the evidence of the mural, I am sure Kirsty and Victoria will soon be up there with the best.”

Councillor Jim Roberts said: “It was a pleasure to be able to congratulate Kirsty and Victoria personally on creating this amazing piece of public art.

“I’m sure it will be enjoyed by everyone who passes along this busy corridor and will be a focal point for the foreseeable future in the school”.

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

The popular Ayrshire rock/new wave band played a lively set for youngsters – and P5-P7 pupils were thrilled to be asked to form the . . . → Read More: Onthank – School of Rock for two days!]]> The halls were alive with the sound of music when up and coming Scottish band Vukovi dropped into a local primary school to film a video for their new single.

The popular Ayrshire rock/new wave band played a lively set for youngsters – and P5-P7 pupils were thrilled to be asked to form the audience and act as classroom extras in the video.

The essence of the film’s story is the band looking back to their school days. Four P5 pupils – Holly Hartley, Kieran McVey, Lee Robertson and Ryan Tucker – were given parts starring as the young band members. Filming took place over two days.

The song is from Vukovi’s new EP “It Looked So Good On Me!” which is due for release in December 2011. The band is made up of Janine Shilstone on synth/vocals, Hamish Reilly on guitar, Jason Trotter on bass/vocals and Martyn Lynch on drums, all aged 23.

Janine said the band chose Onthank Primary for their film “to support the local community”. She added: “It’s been an absolute pleasure working with the kids. The youngsters far exceeded our expectations. This is a very warm and welcoming school”.

Headteacher Steve Banks said: “This was a very good opportunity for pupils to see the production techniques and all that goes into making a music video. They have enjoyed every minute of it and we look forward to seeing the end product”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Enterprise and creativity are key in our modern Curriculum for Excellence. The band’s visit provided an excellent opportunity for the pupils to work with professionals who are experts in their field. Such experiences are beneficial in helping children learn about teamwork and communication, as well as letting them see behind the scenes”.

Vukovi first burst on to the scene when their first recording “Get Hot and Feel the Butterflies” was aired on Radio 1. Their tunes have already received rave reviews and airplay on Radio 1. The band has been labelled “one of Scotland’s hottest young acts” by Jim Gellatly of the Sun. Ally McCrae, BBC Radio 1, said: “They are a phenomenal band live”.

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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.”

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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

Crosshouse Hospital teacher Carole Kerr said: “Young people who are in hospital have a quicker recovery when they are actively and mentally engaged in fun activities”. A . . . → Read More: Clowning around helps hospital kids]]> Laughing with clowns, painting and playing music are all helping youngsters to feel better about being in hospital – thanks to a new arts and education drive.

Crosshouse Hospital teacher Carole Kerr said: “Young people who are in hospital have a quicker recovery when they are actively and mentally engaged in fun activities”. A recent NHS Ayrshire & Arran survey showed that 65% of children under 15 felt anxious and bored while in the wards.

As part of a Healthy Educational Arts Relaxation Therapy (HEART) project run by the Council’s Education Department and the NHS, artists have been coming into wards to work with young people. This has the full support of medical staff acknowledging the therapeutic effects of arts and cultural activity and the significant health and wellbeing benefits to children.

The artists attend hospital at times to fit around clinics, meals and visits. They lead a variety of activities such as music making, storytelling, mosaics and card making. The Teen Room has had a make-over, as a result of an interior design project led by children, supported by an artist.

Senior music students Cameron Robertson and Ross Murray of Stewarton Academy also got involved, spending time giving guitar lessons to John, one of the longer term patients. A pupil of St. Joseph’s Academy and a keen musician, John enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with boys his own age, developing his guitar skills.

Carole Kerr said: “Two of our other regular patients were engaged in the makeover of the teens’ sitting room. The transformation is fantastic and has had much positive feedback from patients, parents and the medical team. The youngsters’ confidence and self esteem have been boosted significantly.

“Young people who are returning in-patients often miss out on creative school experiences such as concerts, theatrical productions and other artistic opportunities. This initiative goes some way towards redressing the balance”.

Sessions planned for the future include animation, Christmas decoration, silk painting – and even visits from Clowndoctors.

Clowndoctors are colourful, professional performers specially trained to work with vulnerable people. They use improvisation, music, song, dance, magic, puppetry, games and take the lead from any enthusiasms that pop-up, such as a love of football, dancing or computer games.

HEART is a partnership project with East Ayrshire Council’s Creative Minds Team and Hospital Education Service, NHS Ayrshire & Arran and Hearts and Minds, funded by Awards for All.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This is an extremely rewarding project for all involved.

“Working with visiting artists gives children an opportunity to communicate in a creative way, whilst inspiring them to learn and have fun. This will in turn boost their confidence and help recovery, following illness and surgery”.

Debbie Campbell, visual artist, said: “All the children at Crosshouse Hospital, particularly those who were in longer term, were delighted to have the opportunity to work on a creative collage and mosaic project and produce small pieces of artwork for their friends and family.”

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

The Grotto will run each weekend from Saturday 3 December until Sunday 18 December. Spaces are filling up fast so book now on 01563 554734 to guarantee your space. . . . → Read More: Santa Claus is coming to Dean Castle Country Park]]> Santa Claus is coming to town very soon and bookings are now being taken for the wonderful Santa’s Grotto at Dean Castle Country Park.

The Grotto will run each weekend from Saturday 3 December until Sunday 18 December. Spaces are filling up fast so book now on 01563 554734 to guarantee your space.

Tickets to see Santa cost £6 and include a present and entry to the cartoon show. Nurseries can book the Grotto mid week and meet Mrs Claus. Tickets to meet Mrs Claus are £4 and this includes a present and entry to the cartoon show.

On Saturday 3 December, a Christmas Fayre will be held in the park between 12pm and 9pm. There will be entertainment, beautifully crafted gifts and toys and fabulous food items on sale. The park’s Christmas lights will be switched on at 4pm and little ones will have the chance to visit Santa at the late night Grotto which will run from 5pm until 8pm.

On Sunday 4 December, the Fayre will run between 12pm and 5pm. There will be live music with the West FM roadshow and performances from The Symptoms, Mechanical Smile, Unsigned Unlimited, East Ayrshire Youth Theatre and local children from Hillbank Nursery, Silverwood Primary and James Hamilton Academy. Or you could sing along to some traditional Christmas carols accompanied by members of Kilmarnock Brass and the Salvation Army Band.

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

As well as local children who joined in various events at the Burns Monument Centre (BMC), youngsters in schools from Stranraer to Orkney logged on to Glow, the world’s first . . . → Read More: Youngsters enjoy warm glow of reading pleasure]]> The recent East Ayrshire Imprint Book Festival schools programme was enjoyed by thousands of pupils all over Scotland – and not just in Kilmarnock.

As well as local children who joined in various events at the Burns Monument Centre (BMC), youngsters in schools from Stranraer to Orkney logged on to Glow, the world’s first national online community for education, to see and hear the authors. Many East Ayrshire schools also took part online.

At the Imprint festival finale, Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, highlighted the input of Glow as one of the successes of the festival.

More than 800 children attended the schools programme at the BMC and 3500 watched online. Author Catherine MacPhail also spoke to a total of 110 youngsters in Cumnock Library.

Head of Schools Andrew Sutherland said he was delighted that the potential of Glow in education was now being realised.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This was an excellent example of partnership working with Education, Library Services and the national Glow team providing enjoyable events that promoted and encouraged literacy and reading to young people.

“The fact that so many viewers nationally logged in to see the talks and workshops highlights the excellence of East Ayrshire’s services and the festival itself”.

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

Dog fouling continues to be a problem within the park. Under the Dog Fouling (Scotland) Act . . . → Read More: Your dog doesn’t know better – but you should]]> Your dog doesn’t know better but you should – that is the message coming loud and clear from the Countryside Rangers at Dean Castle Country Park who are urging dog owners to know their rights and responsibilities.

Dog fouling continues to be a problem within the park. Under the Dog Fouling (Scotland) Act 2003 dog owners have a legal duty to clean up after their dog and can face a hefty fine if they don’t. Dog fouling is extremely unpleasant for visitors walking the park’s beautiful paths and it can also spread disease. Owners are being asked to – bag it, tie it and bin it and help keep the park free of dog mess.

Dog walkers, under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, have the right to use most land for recreation as long as they are acting responsibly. This means keeping their dog on a short lead or under close control. Dogs allowed to roam freely can cause ground-nesting and other birds to leave the nest, resulting in loss of clutches and broods. Ground-nesting species are also particularly vulnerable to attack by dogs.

Dogs can also cause distress or loss to livestock and with the animal breeding programme in place at the country park, the Rangers are keen to avoid pregnant livestock becoming distressed. Dog walkers are therefore asked to keep their dog on a lead at the Pets Corner area and surrounding paddocks.

For more information about the Scottish Outdoor Access Code contact the country park on 01563 554734 or speak to a member of staff.

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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.

Driven forward by East Ayrshire Council, and with significant support from the Railway Heritage Trust, the improvement project will see this key location transformed with . . . → Read More: Work starts on site to revitalise Kilmarnock’s floral clock]]> As drivers, pedestrians and rail passengers in Kilmarnock town centre will probably have noticed, work has now started on the redevelopment of the floral clock at Kilmarnock railway station.

Driven forward by East Ayrshire Council, and with significant support from the Railway Heritage Trust, the improvement project will see this key location transformed with a new clock face, imaginative lighting and new hard and soft landscaping.

The redevelopment project will provide a striking and eye catching feature on what is one of the town’s most prominent sites. By investing in the public realm and improving the attractiveness of the town centre, and in particular the approach to the railway station, it is anticipated that the project will help to create further
interest and investment in the town.

The work is being carried out by Landscapes and Contracts Ltd, with the design work and professional support being provided by David Wilson Associates. The project is programmed to last until March, with a two week shutdown over the Christmas period. The construction methods being used have been carefully considered to ensure there is minimal disruption both to traffic within the town centre and to pedestrians accessing the railway station, particular crucial at this busy time of year in the run up to Christmas.

The redevelopment of the floral clock is just one of a number of projects being carried out at this key location within the town centre. With the help of £1.15 million of funding secured through a successful application to the Scottish Government’s Town Centre Regeneration Fund, large scale public realm improvements have been carried out over the last year throughout the conservation area, including the area to the front of the railway station. This is in addition to the work currently underway to redevelop and bring back into use the former Opera House site and the landscape improvements that are being made to the embankment on
the opposite side of John Finnie Street.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration, said: “I am delighted to see the floral clock project start on site. Although this exciting project has not been an easy one to get off the ground, the Council has remained fully committed to seeing it happen, and has received valuable support
from the Railway Heritage Trust and Network Rail. I am sure when completed the project will prove a real focal point within the town centre and will provide yet another milestone for the regeneration of the town.”

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The building that the club uses is currently in a poor state of repair and far from ideal to support a growing sports club with excellent . . . → Read More: Boxing clever in North West Kilmarnock]]> North West Amateur Boxing Club members are about to be helped to step up a gear in their quest to take part in the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

The building that the club uses is currently in a poor state of repair and far from ideal to support a growing sports club with excellent development potential. Using Scottish Government Cashback/Payback Link-Up Project funding being distributed by the South West Scotland Community Justice Authority, the building will be demolished and redeveloped. This will be done through a combination of capital investment via the fund of £152,000 alongside free labour provided by a team of specifically identified workers who have been sentenced by the Courts to a Community Payback Order with a condition of unpaid work hours. The team will mainly be involved in interior decoration and landscaping work.

As the project is likely to cost in excess of £200,000, a range of additional funding applications have been made and the club has so far secured a Council Community Grant of £13,000 and funding of £10,000 from East Ayrshire Alcohol & Drugs Partnership. Other funding options are also currently being pursued.

The club has a range of excellent coaching activities in place from primary school age groups through to several licensed boxers competing and training in regional and national development programmes.

Councillor John MacKay, Spokesperson for Community Health and Wellbeing, said: “As we move towards the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2014, this club has real potential to inspire and develop great boxers. It already has a number of talented individuals, three of whom have recently been drafted into the national development programme for 2014 games, but with the right facility they could do so much more.

“The sport of boxing also provides excellent benefits for the community in terms of improving health; providing opportunities for local people to become leaders and coaches, and offering night-time and diversionary activities for harder to reach young people. Given the range of alcohol and drug related issues which are prevalent within the area, the club is also keen to support a recovery orientated system of care and will provide opportunities for those in recovery to train, participate and potentially become coaches or leaders within the sport.

“The other benefit of the project is that through Community Payback, low level offenders can get out into the community and pay their dues. I’m delighted that the club is to be redeveloped and am sure that many good things will come from it.”

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Directors Ian and Anne Hope, in partnership with East Ayrshire Council, have set up an ambitious education programme involving . . . → Read More: Sky’s the limit for Knockroon kids’ enterprise]]> Local youngsters are seizing the chance to build a working future for themselves with the help of enterprising business Hope Homes, currently building the new sustainable community at Knockroon with the Prince’s Charities Foundation .

Directors Ian and Anne Hope, in partnership with East Ayrshire Council, have set up an ambitious education programme involving pupils from Auchinleck and Cumnock academies. In a series of training activities over the next year, young people will develop skills to prepare them for the world of work. They will train at Knockroon with skilled tradesmen in civil engineering, plumbing, joinery, planning, electrical work and marketing.

At the recent launch of the Knockroon Business Enterprise and Skills Centre (BESC), Ian Hope welcomed pupils, Council and education staff.

He said: “We would like to develop a strong bond between business and education and we see this enterprise at Knockroon as an additional bolt-on to support the excellent curriculum already being delivered in schools.

“In the immediate future, we need to get designing, manufacturing, marketing and selling Knockroon products – and the sky is the limit if we get it right. We need to build a student team to help deliver this.”

At the launch event, visitors saw six pupils from each school taking part in learning activities and toured the stunning showhomes – in a street named The Kirk’s Alarm – designed to reflect the rich architectural tradition of 17th century Ayrshire. Every detail is perfect, from the wrought iron railings to the sandstone garden walls.

Anne Hope said: “The young people will be working initially on constructing timber garage doors. Some will be based in their own on-site centre, selling products they have created, such as sustainable garden log stores, composters and garden gates. Youngsters will also be given a house of their own to work on, as they learn skills and trades throughout the year”.

Since the visitor centre opened in October, 3,300 visitors have viewed the new homes, with 1240 on the opening weekend alone. The whole development – in which Prince Charles is taking a keen personal interest – will feature 600-700 homes at Knockroon, on the edge of the historic town of Cumnock and Prince Charles’s Dumfries House Estate.

Anne Hope said: “Our aim is to develop a community in which families walk to local amenities such as the village shop. Adam Square will be at the centre of the new neighbourhood, with a public building as its focal point. The mix of homes and workplaces ensures Knockroon will be a vibrant place to work, live and visit.

“Many of the ideas have come from Prince Charles himself, such as the tree-lined streets and our ‘green’ emphasis on sustainability”.

Homes are fitted with woodburning stoves, gardens have invertebrate hotels and garages have eco pods for charging electric cars.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This joint education business initiative presents a wonderful opportunity for local young people to learn from experts in various trades and professions in a real working environment.

“The forward-thinking partnership between Cumnock Academy, Auchinleck Academy, the Council and Hope Homes is a strong one and it will be exciting to see how this develops in the future”.

This unique project – the only one of its kind in Scotland – is part of the Council’s £1million Business Enterprise Fund, which supports the formation of skills centres in East Ayrshire’s nine secondary schools.

The Prince’s Charities Foundation is taking forward Knockroon as a sustainable mixed-use development that will serve as a model community for Scotland. It is hoped that this development will create employment and help bring prosperity to the area and in the longer-term generate profits for donation to charitable causes.

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

LGBT Youth Scotland’s Hugh Torrance made the presentation to Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, who received the LGBT Charter Mark Award (Excellence) on behalf . . . → Read More: Community learning team scoops equality award]]> East Ayrshire Council’s Community Learning & Development (CLD) team recently celebrated receiving an award for excellent work on behalf of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) young people.

LGBT Youth Scotland’s Hugh Torrance made the presentation to Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, who received the LGBT Charter Mark Award (Excellence) on behalf of the CLD service.

The Award is a renewal of the Council’s Charter Mark status, but this time with ‘excellence’, for the commitment shown to promoting equality and to raising awareness of LGBT issues.

The LGBT Charter of Rights is a process which helps everyone in an organisation to focus on the quality of services they provide for LGBT people.

Created by a group of LGBT young people, the charter is based on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. It describes basic rights such as the right to be yourself, the right to be kept safe from harm and the right to be healthy, which most people take for granted.

Councillor Hugh Ross said: “The award of the LGBT Charter of Rights is a recognition of the inclusive culture of services in East Ayrshire.

“The Charter plays a part in creating an environment where all LGBT people are valued, included and supported. We will continue to evaluate our services to ensure that we meet the needs of all service users in an equal and fair manner.”

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

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.”

The school is opening a shop in Dalmellington in a side room of local youth project The Zone.

Pupils chose the name ‘The Miner’s Lamp’ for the new . . . → Read More: ‘Miner’s Lamp’ to light up town centre]]> As part of East Ayrshire Council’s ambitious £1million Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) programme in schools, Doon Academy pupils are going into business in a big way.

The school is opening a shop in Dalmellington in a side room of local youth project The Zone.

Pupils chose the name ‘The Miner’s Lamp’ for the new shop in the village, which will sell products made by the pupils and local artists. The school’s art department has now begun work with graphic designer Allan McKeown to produce a logo for the new business.

Principal Teacher of Enterprise Shonagh Borthwick said: “The pupils in the Enterprise Team range from S3 – S6 and will be involved in serving customers, merchandising, financial management of the shop and planning promotional events. Other groups of young people have been involved in producing stock for the shop”.

Teachers working on the project include Depute Headteacher Lyndsay McRoberts and the Enterprise working group, which consists of members of staff from across the school.

Shonagh Borthwick added: “We intend to sell gift products made in school. We have input from the photography course and master classes making jewellery, felt goods and silk painting. We are also looking to develop our product range by including other departments such as music and biology. Later in the project, we would like to stock goods made by members of the community”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “It’s good to see that Doon Academy is forging ahead with plans to take forward this exciting new business idea, backed by the Council’s BEF.

“The young people will develop valuable skills in teamworking, communication and planning, which will build their confidence and help make them ready for the world of work in the future.

“Pupils will also participate in Skills for Work programmes leading to SQA-accredited qualifications in retail, leadership, enterprise and employability. In addition, the school is lucky to have Marie Macklin, Chief Executive of the Klin Group, working alongside children and staff”.

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

Senior pupils enjoyed an opening ceremony with a motivational Olympic Games DVD and presentations from Platinum Young Ambassadors Jenna Holland and Robert Shaw of Auchinleck Academy.

World curling . . . → Read More: Adistars in their eyes!]]> Sporting youngsters from schools across East Ayrshire took time out of lessons to join the adiStars Conference at Kilmarnock College Centre of Sporting Excellence last week.

Senior pupils enjoyed an opening ceremony with a motivational Olympic Games DVD and presentations from Platinum Young Ambassadors Jenna Holland and Robert Shaw of Auchinleck Academy.

World curling triple gold champion Ewan MacDonald dropped in to meet and chat to the youngsters, who also competed in a quiz organised by Gold Young Ambassadors JJ Hawkshaw and Hannah Wales of Grange Academy.

The budding young athletes also had the opportunity to put questions to a sports panel featuring Team GB Olympic hammer thrower Shirley Addison – also known as Battleaxe from TV’s Gladiators – and local sportsman Michael McRoberts, who regularly competes at major taekwondo championships home and abroad.

AdiStars is a programme led by Active Schools, sportscotland and the Youth Sport Trust, sponsored by Adidas. East Ayrshire is one of just 10 local authorities in Scotland selected to run this programme, based on last year’s success of the Young Ambassadors. All Young Ambassadors are now known as adiStars.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “I’m delighted that we have such an enthusiastic group of ambassadors in all nine of our secondary schools, keen to promote sporting activities to other youngsters.

“The adiStars conference was excellent, inspiring the young people by giving them the opportunity to meet professional athletes at the top of their game”.

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

A group of Primary 7 pupils has been responsible for collecting information, which teacher Claire Findlay put together to create the new site.

Claire, who currently teaches a P3 class, said: . . . → Read More: Thumbs up for fab new Annanhill website]]> Youngsters at a local primary want to tell the world about their wonderful new website and get as many virtual visitors as possible.

A group of Primary 7 pupils has been responsible for collecting information, which teacher Claire Findlay put together to create the new site.

Claire, who currently teaches a P3 class, said: “We are delighted to launch the Annanhill website, which we hope will be useful and interesting. It contains information about what is going on in each individual class. There’s a news section too, featuring our newsletters for online reading, which I’ll update each Monday morning”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “It’s great to see Annanhill making all this information – including the school handbook – readily available online for parents, staff and pupils.

“More and more schools are setting up their own websites and each gives a flavour of the school’s individual ethos, with information on its aims, parent and pupil councils, clubs and activities”.

To find out more, visit www.annanhillschool.btck.co.uk .

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

On Saturday 3 December, Saturday 10 December, Saturday 17 December and Saturday 24 December all of the Council’s . . . → Read More: Free Christmas parking in Kilmarnock town centre]]> If you haven’t started your Christmas shopping yet don’t worry Kilmarnock Town Centre has Christmas all wrapped up with a wide range of home grown shops, large national stores and during December free Saturday parking.

On Saturday 3 December, Saturday 10 December, Saturday 17 December and Saturday 24 December all of the Council’s pay and display car parks will be free. In addition the Multi Storey Car Park will be operating under extended hours from Monday 19 December to Friday 23 December when it will be open till 7pm. On Saturday 24 December the multi storey will be open till 7pm and parking will be free all day.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration said: “Kilmarnock Town Centre has much to offer shoppers this Christmas and with free parking available and extended hours at the multi storey there is nothing stopping shoppers from making the most of our fantastic town centre.”

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Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is of the highest importance for safe motoring throughout the winter months, providing balanced braking and maximum grip in the inclement . . . → Read More: Have you checked your tyre pressure for winter]]> East Ayrshire Council’s Trading Standards Service is currently testing the accuracy of tyre pressure gauges at all retail filling stations and commercial tyre distributors throughout East Ayrshire.

Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is of the highest importance for safe motoring throughout the winter months, providing balanced braking and maximum grip in the inclement weather conditions.

But how accurate is your personal tyre pressure gauge? The Trading Standards Service is now giving you the opportunity to have your personal tyre pressure gauge tested, free of charge. Simply take your pressure gauge, whether it is a pencil gauge, dial gauge or foot pump gauge, along to your nearest local office between Monday 14 November and Friday 18 November 2011 or to the Trading Standards Service office at Civic Centre South, John Dickie Street, Kilmarnock.

Your personal gauge will be tested by Trading Standards and can be uplifted during the following week from your local office. Inaccurate personal gauges will be returned to owners but with a strong recommendation that they should not be relied upon.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “This worthwhile initiative demonstrates East Ayrshire’s continued commitment to consumer safety. With winter conditions approaching it is imperative that motorists ensure that their tyres are correctly inflated. This is an ideal opportunity to ensure that personal tyre gauges are accurately measuring tyre pressures, and the great thing is it’s a free service.”

For information and advice contact Trading Standards on 01563 576602.

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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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Carol Nairn, 18, from Mauchline, received a cheque as part of the McIlwraith Award, a bequeathal to Auchinleck Academy from the will of the late Agnes . . . → Read More: Carol scores exams hat-trick]]> Celebrations were the order of the day recently when a former pupil of Auchinleck Academy won a prestigious award for her excellent performance in the Advanced Higher exams.

Carol Nairn, 18, from Mauchline, received a cheque as part of the McIlwraith Award, a bequeathal to Auchinleck Academy from the will of the late Agnes McIlwraith. Carol achieved an amazing hat-trick of grade A passes in Advanced Higher Maths, Chemistry and French.

The talented all-rounder is now in first year at Strathclyde University, studying Chemical Engineering.

Auchinleck Academy Headteacher Peter Gilchrist said: ““Congratulations to Carol on an outstanding performance – and best wishes for the future, which, I am sure, will be a very successful one”.

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Jim Roberts said: “Carol’s exam achievement is an outstanding one, especially at Advanced Higher level. Her success is well-deserved and she is a credit to her former school, her teachers and her family”.

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

Included in the agreed budget strategy are proposals to ensure that there will be no closures during 2012/13, nor will residents be hit with any new charges for Council services. . . . → Read More: Budget protects Council services]]> No cuts to services and no planned closures – the message emerging from East Ayrshire Council’s cabinet meeting last week was loud and clear.

Included in the agreed budget strategy are proposals to ensure that there will be no closures during 2012/13, nor will residents be hit with any new charges for Council services. There remains a firm commitment to continue to make efficiency savings wherever possible and to continue efforts to streamline structures within the organisation.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: “Everybody knows how challenging the financial position is, but we’ve been scrupulous in our spending and in making efficiencies this year. This good housekeeping means that we have money in the bank to support our budget proposals for next year.

“In addition, managers have identified savings of almost £5.5 million as a result of a series of savings opportunities. These proposals will have little or no impact on our services during the year ahead.

“We now have to think about how we deliver our services in the longer term. We are exploring ways of improving efficiency, working more closely with communities and integrating our services with partner organisations. This is ambitious and will potentially transform the way East Ayrshire Council operates in the future.

“If people have ideas they think we could use, now is the chance to air them”.

Budget proposals are currently open for public consultation. From now until noon on Thursday 8 December 2011, local communities, businesses and residents have the opportunity to express their views and make suggestions on where further savings could be made.

Full details of draft budget proposals are available to view/ download from www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk and comments – both electronic and written – are welcomed and encouraged.

Email: budget@east-ayrshire.gov.uk Web: www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk
Write to: Fiona Lees, Chief Executive, Council HQ, London Road, Kilmarnock, KA3 7BU.

All feedback received during this process will be used to inform final proposals. A final budget will be submitted to a special Cabinet meeting on 14 December and will be considered by Council on 15 December 2011.

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

Ninety senior pupils, 16 teachers, local business people and Council leaders attended an inspirational seminar in St Joseph’s Academy, Kilmarnock.

The . . . → Read More: Sir Tom backs £1million schools enterprise push]]> At the launch of an ambitious £1million education programme, young people from schools across East Ayrshire learned how to be entrepreneurs from one of the best in the world – Sir Tom Hunter.

Ninety senior pupils, 16 teachers, local business people and Council leaders attended an inspirational seminar in St Joseph’s Academy, Kilmarnock.

The youngsters heard first from local boy Sir Tom, who famously began his career selling trainers from the back of a van. He said: “You must enjoy what you do. When you get up in the morning, it’s your choice whether you have a good attitude or a bad attitude”. He also highlighted the importance of “great teachers” in young people’s lives – and warned, “You’ve got to have a bit of a brass neck to be an entrepreneur”.

The fascinated audience also enjoyed a high-octane performance (including mandolin playing) from Dr Peter Hughes, Chief Executive of Scottish Engineering, who began by telling them: “I am the jammiest person in the world. Sir Tom thinks he has the best job in the world? No, I have. I wake up in the morning and I’m buzzing. I love engineering!”

Dr Hughes was a great favourite with the young people, especially when he dished out fivers for correct answers. He emphasised the importance of determination, pointing out that he was “typical Scottish working class”, with dad a farm labourer and mum a village postie.

The budding young entrepreneurs also had the chance to show their skills in practical workshops. Each group pitched a product to business leaders and planned its launch, in a Dragons’ Den – type challenge.

This seminar formed part of the East Ayrshire Schools Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) programme – an ambitious push to encourage entrepreneurial qualities and prepare school leavers for the world of work. Business Enterprise and Skills Centres (BESCs) in all nine secondary schools will be backed by the expertise of supremos such as Sir Tom Hunter and local business leader Marie Macklin, amongst others.

Generous entrepreneur Sir Tom has also set up an annual £5000 prize for the youngster who comes up with the most innovative idea in the next year – to be decided by fellow pupils.

Innovative programmes aim to address identified skills gaps such as effective communication, planning and organising, problem solving, team working and leadership. BESCs will concentrate on growing Scottish industries such as tourism, food and drink, life sciences, finance, creative industries and renewables

A total of 11 business leaders have agreed to help schools achieve their aims. They include Norman Drummond, of Drummond International and Columba 1400 and Mark Strudwick, chief executive of the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust.

Executive Director of Educational and Social Services Graham Short stated that the fund was “specifically designed to make sure young people leaving school were ‘business-ready’”.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: “East Ayrshire schools mean business. We’re investing £1 million in our young people’s futures and have attracted backing from business leaders local and national to help make this a success.

“Willie Mackie is putting bank employees into schools to help manage project finances; Ian and Anne Hope are working with Auchinleck and Cumnock students at Knockroon and Keith Murray of Lochaven International and Marie Macklin of Klin Group are fully involved in helping our students become more entrepreneurial.

“There is great enthusiasm in schools for our very ambitious programme and there is absolutely no reason why East Ayrshire should not produce more success stories like Sir Tom Hunter in years to come”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This highly enjoyable seminar was an important opportunity for young people to meet and work with a range of business leaders who are supporting our enterprising programme.

“The pupils left motivated and inspired, with improved knowledge of the skills required to be successful in business and in a range of workplaces – and they learned from the best in the business”.

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

Catching the eyes of shoppers are colourful graffiti boards brightening up shop windows at the Johnnie Walker Bond in Strand Street.

The boards were created by children who attended dance and graffiti art . . . → Read More: From street dance to high street art]]> Window-gazing just got a whole lot more interesting as some empty spaces have now been filled up with bright, modern artwork.

Catching the eyes of shoppers are colourful graffiti boards brightening up shop windows at the Johnnie Walker Bond in Strand Street.

The boards were created by children who attended dance and graffiti art sessions in James Hamilton Academy in summer. The P4-S6 boys and girls worked with artists Brian McFeely and Chris Young, from Edinburgh-based MS Creative.

Pupils attended two dance classes and one art workshop each day and designed t-shirts as well as a range of large mdf backboards featuring their graffiti art.

East Ayrshire Council Dance Motivator Zara Smith said: “The idea behind it was to create art which reflected the history and heritage of Kilmarnock in a modern and exciting way that the children would enjoy. As well as the artwork, the participants learned dances to go along with the hip hop and graffiti culture”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This very popular summer school’s aim was to reflect the rich heritage of the local community and to express this through art and dance.

“The graffiti artworks set in traditional shop windows highlight the connection between Kilmarnock’s past and the culture of today’s young people in the town, which is as rich and vibrant as ever.”

Councillor Bobby McDill, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration, said: “The young people’s work is fantastic and shows they are talented not only in dance, but also in art. The graffiti boards really brighten up the spaces and will look great in the run-up to Christmas. I’m delighted to see such an innovative idea in place”.

The project was co-ordinated by East Ayrshire Council’s Creative Minds Team and supported by Historic Scotland and Heritage Lottery Fund, through Kilmarnock Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme/Townscape Heritage Initiative.

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

“Thomas Smith is a despicable individual. He befriended, then brutally murdered Diane and Holly . . . → Read More: STATEMENT ISSUED BY STRATHCLYDE POLICE]]> Speaking following the publication of the Significant Case Review into the management of Thomas Smith as a registered sex offender and the circumstances leading to the murder by Smith of Diane and Holly Fallon, Assistant Chief Constable George Hamilton said:

“Thomas Smith is a despicable individual. He befriended, then brutally murdered Diane and Holly Fallon. It was a crime that not only shocked our community, but also deprived a close-knit family of their loved ones and, in particular, the opportunity to watch Holly grow into adulthood.

“As this case was so shocking, it was only right that there was a review into what happened and the way in which Smith was managed as a Registered Sex Offender. Every one of the agencies involved has fully supported and engaged with the review process. Now that it is complete I can say that we have accepted every one of its findings and recommendations. We are taking action to ensure that all of the points that have been raised are acted upon.

“It is our job to Keep People Safe. Doing this means that we have to manage people like Smith in our communities. I am sorry that he was able to murder Diane and Holly while we had responsibility for managing him. I have met with the family of Diane and Holly Fallon, shared the findings of the report with them and I have made that apology directly to them.

“There are undoubtedly things that we could and should have done better. The review points these areas out. We fully accept what the report says and we have made a number of changes since the murders and as a result of the review process. Lessons have been learned and major improvements have been made.

“I cannot begin to imagine how difficult these past two and a half years have been for the Fallon family. I know that they have had to hear and read things in court and in this report that no family should ever have to deal with. They are a remarkable group of people who have shown incredible courage and dignity throughout this most terrible time in their lives.”

All media enquiries to:
Rob Shorthouse
Director of Corporate Communications
Strathclyde Police
T: 0141 532 2333
M: 07553 388 762

Provost Stephanie Young was invited along to a charity ‘extravaganza’ held by Kilmarnock Rotary Club last week which raised over £6000 for various charities.

Held at the Park Hotel in Kilmarnock, the evening featured entertainment from Pulse Show Band and Pulse Jazz Band as well as Centrestage Gospel and Soul . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock Rotary raises thousands for charities]]>

Provost Stephanie Young was invited along to a charity ‘extravaganza’ held by Kilmarnock Rotary Club last week which raised over £6000 for various charities.

Held at the Park Hotel in Kilmarnock, the evening featured entertainment from Pulse Show Band and Pulse Jazz Band as well as Centrestage Gospel and Soul Choir.

The money raised will be divided between Combat Stress, Diabetes UK, Motor Neurone Disease Scotland and Centrestage Bursary Fund.

Provost Young said: “The Club has raised a fantastic amount of money for the different charities which I know will be much appreciated by each of them. The event itself was very enjoyable and my congratulations go to the organisers for planning such an entertaining evening.”

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]]> http://eacnews.co.uk/eacnews/kilmarnock-rotary-raises-thousands-for-charities.html/feed 0 http://eacnews.co.uk/eacnews/budget-opens-for-consultation.html http://eacnews.co.uk/eacnews/budget-opens-for-consultation.html#comments Wed, 09 Nov 2011 13:45:16 +0000 East Ayrshire Council PR http://eacnews.co.uk/?p=6270 East Ayrshire Council’s budget consultation starts on Wednesday 9 November 2011.

From then until Thursday 8 December 2011 local communities, businesses and residents have an opportunity to express their views on our draft budget proposals and make suggestions on where further savings could possibly be made.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council said: . . . → Read More: Budget opens for consultation]]> East Ayrshire Council’s budget consultation starts on Wednesday 9 November 2011.

From then until Thursday 8 December 2011 local communities, businesses and residents have an opportunity to express their views on our draft budget proposals and make suggestions on where further savings could possibly be made.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council said: “Community engagement forms an essential part of our budget setting process. There was an excellent response to last year’s budget consultation and we got some very positive ideas which were fed into our final budget – and I am confident of again getting a positive response.

“Our communities are realistic about our financial position and I would urge them to come forward once again to give us their views and suggestions. We need the people and communities of East Ayrshire to help us shape our services so that we can continue to provide high quality public services that are fit for purpose, despite the economic challenges we continue to face.

“As always we will have a series of budget consultation and engagement meetings, including meetings with the community and voluntary sector, people with a learning disability, children and young people, our Residents and Tenants Associations and the Parents’ Steering Group. I would also encourage members of the public to again let us have their comments on our plans and how we can improve them.”

Full details of the draft budget proposals are available to view and / or download from www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk. Electronic and written comments are welcomed and encouraged.

Email: budget@east-ayrshire.gov.uk
Web: www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk
Write to: Chief Executive, Fiona Lees, Council HQ, London Road, Kilmarnock, KA3 7BU.

This consultation will remain open until noon, Thursday 8 December 2011. All feedback received during this process will be used to inform the final proposals. A final budget will be submitted to a Special Cabinet meeting on 14 December, and will thereafter will be considered by Council on 15 December 2011.

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Additional information

In line with previous years and recognising the challenges currently facing the Council, the 2012/13 draft revenue budget seeks to ensure that:
• management action will be taken to identify and achieve efficiency savings wherever possible;
• compulsory redundancies will be minimised;
• additional investment in social work services will be delivered;
• management structures will continue to be streamlined;
• appropriate levels of reserves will be maintained to meet unforeseen future pressures; and
• established consultation arrangements will continue.

It is anticipated that Council Tax will be frozen for a further year at 2007/08 levels and Council house rent increases will to be restricted to £1.99 over 52 weeks
or £2.16 over the 48 week payment cycle, equivalent to 3.6%.

Stewarton Academy’s senior wind band won a well-deserved Gold Award at the National Concert Band Festival (NCBF) at Strathclyde University, Jordanhill Campus.

The talented young musicians played superb renditions of Song and . . . → Read More: Wind band’s Song and Dance strikes gold]]> East Ayrshire schools’ music recently gained another jewel in its crown when a local academy band struck gold in a national competition.

Stewarton Academy’s senior wind band won a well-deserved Gold Award at the National Concert Band Festival (NCBF) at Strathclyde University, Jordanhill Campus.

The talented young musicians played superb renditions of Song and Dance by Richard Saucedo; To Realms of Endless Day by Johnnie Vinson and Dillon’s Flight by Ralph Ford

The band’s winning performance was the culmination of a musically productive weekend at Dounans Outdoor Education Centre, Aberfoyle, preparing for the Scottish regional round of the band festival. In total, there were 49 senior band pupils learning with seven instrumental teachers, supported by five parent volunteers.

In addition to working hard on the festival programme, band members also enjoyed an afternoon of team-building outdoor activities, bringing an extra motivational and bonding dimension to the weekend.

Said instrumental instructor Alan Friel: “The pupils really were a pleasure to be around and to work with over the course of the weekend.

“We are now looking forward to the possibility of representing Stewarton, East Ayrshire and Scotland at the national finals of the NCBF in London on Saturday 31 March and Sunday 1 April 2012.

“Special mention must go to members of Stewarton Bands Support Group for all their hard work, fundraising and logistical support – the weekend couldn’t have happened without them!”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Our music service in East Ayrshire is truly outstanding in its quality. Stewarton Academy’s competition success highlights this yet again. Thanks to the pupils and their teachers for all their enthusiasm and hard work and to the support group for their unstinting commitment to helping the young musicians”.

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

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.

And youngsters at St Andrew’s Primary, Kilmarnock – the mobile gallery’s first port of call – made the most of the opportunity, picking out their favourite artworks and chatting to on-board guides about . . . → Read More: Where will art Van Go next?]]> Pupils enjoyed art on their doorsteps, when the Travelling Gallery took the Rodin to several East Ayrshire school playgrounds this week.

And youngsters at St Andrew’s Primary, Kilmarnock – the mobile gallery’s first port of call – made the most of the opportunity, picking out their favourite artworks and chatting to on-board guides about the exhibition. Different classes took turns to go out and climb aboard the artbus throughout the day.

The mobile gallery also parked in playgrounds of Hurlford, Newmilns, Patna and New Cumnock primary schools, giving youngsters the opportunity to see new art, without having to travel any distance – and it was all free, with no need to ‘show me the Monet’.

The autumn exhibition Waste Management is an exciting collaboration between two contemporary Scotland-based artists, Jonathan Owen and Charlie Hammond.

Both have been known to change the appearance of objects and often use humour in their work. The quirky element and hint of fun appeal to visitors of all ages.

A fascinating collection of exhibits, Waste Management explores the subject of transformation. It includes screen prints, drawings, paintings and sculptures made from found objects.

The Travelling Gallery previously visited Kilmarnock and Cumnock town centres during the October school break.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said:”I enjoyed this really interesting exhibition and it was great to see the children’s reaction to the artwork. They were full of questions and totally captivated by the whole idea of the art gallery in a bus.

“Many topics came up when exploring the exhibition that teachers could use to encourage creative thinking and deliver the experiences and outcomes of Curriculum for Excellence”.

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Grange Academy’s own budding rugby stars were joined for inaugural games by . . . → Read More: School of Rugby scores another success]]> A new sporting initiative was under the spotlight at a local secondary school recently, as visitors – including a TV film crew – arrived to celebrate the success of the School of Rugby and the official opening of its brand new pitch.

Grange Academy’s own budding rugby stars were joined for inaugural games by players from Cumnock Academy and Carrick Academy, which also run Schools of Rugby.

A film crew from popular STV Rugby arrived to film the youngsters training and to interview team coach – and maths teacher in his spare time – Jamie Houston.

The groundbreaking pilot, operated by East Ayrshire Council in partnership with Scottish Rugby, created Scotland’s first “School of Rugby”, which embedded daily rugby sessions into the school curriculum.

Jamie Houston said: “It’s great to have a real rugby pitch at the school for the first time in five years.

“Grange Academy is the first East Ayrshire school to win a gold award for rugby from the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU). We now have five teams and this was a pilot base for the School of Rugby programme, which has, as a result of our success, been rolled out in 19 schools across Scotland”.

Over 100 youngsters are involved in the School of Rugby at Grange, which includes a team of Primary 6/7 players from Annanhill, Gargieston and Park, as well as teams from S1, S2, S3/4 and S5/6.

The educational initiative, using Cashback for Communities funding through the Scottish Government, gives first year pupils – selected on their ability to perform in and out of the classroom – the opportunity to enjoy a rugby session every day.

It is designed as a social and academic programme that will not only help youngsters grow as players, but also aid them in their physical, emotional and academic growth.

The school’s ambitious development plan includes effective use of player profiles and video analysis, trips to Glasgow Warriors matches and to Murrayfield – and even an international tour. Teachers will track pupils’ achievements and behaviour across the school to help get the best from every child. It’s also planned to increase the number of girls taking part.

Fred Wildridge, Headteacher of Grange Academy, said: “This initiative provides a great opportunity for our teaching staff to work in close partnership with coaching staff from the SRU. The programme is excellent and is further promoting the positive attitude of our young people towards health and wellbeing. We are delighted to be involved in the programme and look forward to contributing to the future success of Scottish Rugby”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “As a keen rugby supporter, I am delighted to see the new pitch at Grange Academy being put to such excellent use. And I am pleased that East Ayrshire was the first Scottish local authority to deliver this exciting initiative, promoting the benefits of physical activity, teamworking and positive attitudes for young people.

“As a bonus, we are helping develop future rugby players to keep Scotland competing at the highest level.”

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing, said: “Congratulations to Grange Academy on a well-rounded social and academic development programme. The young players are learning not only about practical skills such as catching and passing, but also about lifestyle management, good sporting habits and health and nutrition”.

Neil Carrie, Project Manager for Scottish Rugby, added: “Rugby can offer potentially life-changing opportunities to enhance education and skills, improve health and wellbeing and foster an ethos of teamwork, discipline and respect.”

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

Provost Stephanie Young presented certificates to members of the Children’s Panel recently in recognition of their many years of service.

Provost Young said: “The Children’s Hearing system is unique to Scotland and depends upon dedicated volunteers who are trained to sit on Children’s Panels. Members come from all walks of life, but share . . . → Read More: Children’s Panel Recognition]]>

Provost Stephanie Young presented certificates to members of the Children’s Panel recently in recognition of their many years of service.

Provost Young said: “The Children’s Hearing system is unique to Scotland and depends upon dedicated volunteers who are trained to sit on Children’s Panels. Members come from all walks of life, but share a common interest in children’s welfare.

“The Council really appreciates the excellent work that the Panel members do and the years of dedicated service which they have devoted to this work.”

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In the ‘Flames’ programme set up by the Council’s Active Schools team , 21 Kilmarnock College Advanced NC sports coaching students will visit six schools – Kirkstyle, Mount Carmel, New Farm, Silverwood, . . . → Read More: Youngsters on track for Olympic fun and games]]> Local primary school children are all set to be fired with enthusiasm as the country counts down towards the London 2012 Olympics.

In the ‘Flames’ programme set up by the Council’s Active Schools team , 21 Kilmarnock College Advanced NC sports coaching students will visit six schools – Kirkstyle, Mount Carmel, New Farm, Silverwood, St Andrew’s and Mauchline – during November. They’ll give youngsters taster sessions of a range of sports and skills activities, such as throwing and catching, using the Active Club pack.

Active Schools Co-ordinator Gordon Cunningham said: “The students will be working with P6/7 classes for five weeks, playing various fun games, leading up to a festival on 6 December at Kilmarnock College Centre of Sporting Excellence”.

“They will be promoting the three Olympic values of respect, excellence and friendship and the four paralympic values of determination, courage, inspiration and equality”.

At the sporting festival, each of the six schools competing will represent the country it has been allocated in the lead-up to the Olympics:
Kirkstyle – Japan
Mount Carmel – Chile
New Farm – Romania
Silverwood – Switzerland
St. Andrew’s – Greece
Mauchline – Ethiopia

The children will dress in the colours of their country and carry the appropriate national flag.

Attending the ‘Flames’ opening session at New Farm primary school, Ryan Rodger, James Hamilton cluster Active Schools Co-ordinator, said: “This is an excellent club for youngsters to enjoy themselves and get physically active, whilst trying out new sports that will be part of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

“The partnership with Kilmarnock College students works well in East Ayrshire. The students were great in their delivery and had the youngsters excited about the upcoming games. They related each activity to an Olympic value – an important part of the Flames programme.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “As a result of the festival and the coaching the children have received, it is hoped pupils will go on to take up the various sports experienced in taster sessions, either after school or in the community”.

The ‘Flames’ programme and Active Club pack are resources from the British Heart Foundation and all students were trained by Active Schools Co-ordinator Gordon Cunningham.

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

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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Not even a torrential downpour could have stopped a Halloween parade and fireworks display in Auchinleck on Monday night!

The event was a joint Halloween and fireworks celebration organised by Auchinleck Community Development Initiative. School children of all ages took part in dressing up (as did some of the adults!), and the winners . . . → Read More: Double celebration in Auchinleck]]>

Not even a torrential downpour could have stopped a Halloween parade and fireworks display in Auchinleck on Monday night!

The event was a joint Halloween and fireworks celebration organised by Auchinleck Community Development Initiative. School children of all ages took part in dressing up (as did some of the adults!), and the winners won a £25 prize.

Provost Stephanie Young was invited along to judge the competition and received a bouquet of flowers from little Ryan McCarron.

After the children received their goodie bags, everyone paraded to the top of Highhouse Estate where the Provost counted down the first firework, part of a display by fireworks company “21cc” from Edinburgh.

Provost Young said: “It was wonderful to see so many members of the community turn out for the festivities despite the torrential rain! Everyone really got into the spirit of things and the children had a fabulous time dressing up and watching the fireworks. My congratulations go to Auchinleck Community Development Initiative for organising such a thoroughly enjoyable community event.”

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Provost Stephanie Young attended the preview of artist Julie Winter’s new exhibition at the Wellington Gallery in Kilmarnock this week.

“The Textured Landscape” features over twenty original works of art by Julie which demonstrate her skill with a pallet knife and her passion for the landscape of Ayrshire.

Provost Young said: “This is . . . → Read More: Winter at the Wellington]]>

Provost Stephanie Young attended the preview of artist Julie Winter’s new exhibition at the Wellington Gallery in Kilmarnock this week.

“The Textured Landscape” features over twenty original works of art by Julie which demonstrate her skill with a pallet knife and her passion for the landscape of Ayrshire.

Provost Young said: “This is a wonderful exhibition which shows off Julie’s talent for recreating beautiful views of Ayrshire. I know that Julie is very grateful to Neil Hamilton of the Wellington Gallery for all the support he gives to up and coming artists in the community, so I hope that people will go
along to view this exhibition, the last of 2011!”

The exhibition runs until Wednesday 30 November.

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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 Healthy Weight Communities initiative, which began in 2009, encourages people living in Catrine to embrace healthy eating, physical activity and healthy weight as part of their . . . → Read More: C’mon Catrine working well with the community]]> A recent progress report has found that ‘C’mon Catrine – It’s Your Future’ is well on its way to making Catrine a healthier place to live.

The Healthy Weight Communities initiative, which began in 2009, encourages people living in Catrine to embrace healthy eating, physical activity and healthy weight as part of their everyday lives. Catrine was one of eight communities throughout Scotland selected by the Scottish Government to deliver pilot programmes initially until April 2011. Funding for the initiative has since been extended to March 2012.

Project officers Nikki Carstairs and Jane Moore have organised numerous events and activities for all age groups in Catrine including Primary School Health Week; a visit by the Cooking Bus; the creation of a Young Mum’s Group and the establishment of an annual Celebrate Catrine Family Fun Day in 2010. The team has also been working hard to improve the uptake of breastfeeding initiatives and are regularly invited to attend
PTA meetings to provide updates and support.

A national evaluation of the Healthy Weight Communities initiative found that the approach was proving effective due to the local community focus of the project, the creation of a local partnership of key agencies, and a focus on practical action to raise awareness and join up existing activities.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Community Health and Wellbeing, said: “The progress made so far by the C’mon Catrine team has been excellent. Part of the reason the project is working so well is that Catrine is a place that has a very strong sense of community and the residents have really engaged themselves in the initiative. The other reason is that Nikki and Jane have been out and about carrying out door-to-door surveys and face-to-face discussions with residents to find out their attitudes, beliefs and motivations so that the right activities can be planned for them.

“Our priority right now is to look into options to continue delivering the initiative beyond the pilot funding period so that Catrine continues to be a healthy, happy and enjoyable place in which to live and work.”

For more information on C’mon Catrine, contact Nikki Carstairs on 01563 554891 or email cmoncatrine@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.

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Theresa Breslin told first year youngsters at Grange Academy about her career and answered questions about her books and writing in general.

The celebrated writer worked as a librarian before taking up . . . → Read More: Popular author teaches youngsters the write stuff]]> Keen young readers were delighted to welcome an award-winning Scottish author into their classrooms as part of the Readathon charity national tour.

Theresa Breslin told first year youngsters at Grange Academy about her career and answered questions about her books and writing in general.

The celebrated writer worked as a librarian before taking up writing full-time and has published over 30 books for children and young adults. Her work has been filmed for TV, broadcast on radio and is read world-wide. The books have been praised for their strong setting and sense of place and Breslin acknowledges that she draws on the dramatic landscape of Scotland, its history and culture.

She won the Carnegie Medal, the UK’s most prestigious award in children’s literature, for Whispers in the Graveyard, the compelling story of a dyslexic boy.

Her books range from those for younger readers such as The Magic Factory series to middle readers like Bullies at School and the four Dream Master books. Divided City, exploring themes of prejudice, friendship and conflict resolution, has been shortlisted for ten book awards, winning the Catalyst and the RED book awards. Her latest novel, Prisoner of the Inquisition, is also nominated for a number of awards.

Breslin grew up in a large family – one of six children – in Lenzie, Dunbartonshire. She never planned to be a writer but, when a nearby steel mill was closed with devastating effects on the local community, she was inspired to write a story about it from a child’s point of view.

English teacher Lorraine Wilson said: “As part of our continuing efforts through Curriculum for Excellence, we provide a wide- ranging and varied educational experience for our pupils.

“Theresa spoke to all first years during their English lessons and encouraged them to think about their own creative potential. Her experiences and successes had a very positive impact on our students and this will transfer into their own work across the school”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “It is excellent practice for young learners to work with experts in their field. In this case, the opportunity to meet a very successful and popular author was a great opportunity to encourage children not only in their reading, but also in writing”.

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