South Ayrshire Provost hosted a special celebration in Maybole to mark the occasion of David Kiltie retiring from the Community Council.

South Ayrshire Provost Helen Moonie said: "David Kiltie has made an immense contribution to the town of Maybole and to its community. Born and educated in Maybole, he has used all his talents and lifeskills to improve the lives of others by serving on a wide range of committees and working groups. Many people will remember David for the work he did with MayTag through the 1980s and the 1990s where he worked  tirelessly to help deliver training and work initiatives to help people find employment, and moving with the times went on to help set up their very successful website. Involved in so many projects - Maybole and District Business Association, Carrick Community Transport, Maybole's annual town gala and Maybole Town Twinning Association. David is now retiring and I wish him and his wife Margaret a long and happy retirement."

The Community Council paid tribute to David Kiltie and presented him with a plaque and a gift, Mark Fletcher Chairman of the Maybole Community Council said: "David will be a big loss to the Community Council, but it is reassuring to know that his help and expertise is only a telephone call away. His are big shoes to fill as he has done so much for the town as highlighted by the Provost and is affectionately known as Mr Maybole.

"No doubt David will immerse himself in other work and get to spend more time with Margaret, his six daughters and his grandchildren and it was lovely to see them at the celebration. The whole of the Community Council wish David and Margaret a long, fruitful and rewarding retirement that will surely offer many new opportunities which I know he will embrace whole heartedly, just as he did with the Community Council."

Following the presentations David Kiltie said: "Thanks to Provost Moonie and South Ayrshire Council for the lovely gift and for arranging the evening.

"I would like to thank everyone who has been a member of the community council, Provosts, Councillors, Council Officers, MPs, MSPS and members of the community who I have worked with over many years. And a big thank you to my wife Margaret and our family for their support.

"Mark Fletcher, Chair of the Maybole Community Council presented me with a plaque marking my service and a set of 'keys to the auld toon of Minniebole'. I thought it an unbelievable and thoughtful gift which I will treasure."