August 29th 2003

August 22nd 2003

August 15th 2003

August 8th 2003

August 1st 2003

August 29th 2003

THE holiday club run in August by Maybole Council of Churches was again a great success. Around 40 children attended each day for lots of fun, games, quizzes, stories, videos, drama and singing. The theme selected for this year's club was 'Desert Detectives', and the children were split into four groups, each with an appropriate title . . . On The Case, 007, Desert Rats and Arabian Knights. Arabian Knights won the best decorated wall competition, and On The Case were voted the best group overall. The week ended with an Extravaganza Service in the Old Church hall on the Sunday evening when parents and friends were invited to go along to learn a little of what their youngsters had been up to all week.  Meanwhile, on Sunday, August 16, the Council of Churches organised a bus trip to Kelburn Country Park near Largs, and a party of 63 people had a great day out in glorious weather. The trip was partly funded with a generous donation from Carrick Round Table.

ONE of Maybole's best known businesses is celebrating its 25th anniversary next week. June Dunlop bought her shop on the town's High Street in September, 1978, from George and Cathie Carmichael at a time when it was primarily a greengrocers which also sold flowers and chocolates. She had worked in the research and development labs at Alginate Industries and when they closed, June - already interested in floristry, used her redundancy money to buy the shop. Over the years as shopping trends changed more towards supermarkets for fruit and vegetables, June expanded the flower, boxed chocolates and gift side of the business. She pointed out: "Twenty-five years ago, the usual order would have been for a bouquet or basket, usually in chrysanthemums or carnations. Now, requests are for flowers as hand ties, floral arrangements in ceramics or vases with more exotic flowers such as anthurium, lisianthus, orchids and lilies." To meet these needs, she stocks a wide range of vases and ceramics, and flowers are imported direct from Holland as well as from the flower market in Glasgow. June and her staff supply flowers for every occasion, not only in Maybole and surrounding villages, but increasingly in Ayr and Prestwick. Blooms can also be sent all over Britain through Flowergram. They also specialise in wedding flowers which June and her staff can personalise; this has meant working on orders from 20 to many thousands. Customers have included Blythe Duff (of Taggart fame) who married at Culzean, and Tommy Hilfiger and his wife who renewed their marriage vows at Straiton church with a reception at Ladyburn. June has also supplied the flowers for films and TV, including Dr Finlay s Casebook, a new version of Dangerous Liaison featuring Rupert Everett and filmed at Culzean, and a Bollywood movie.

Many of June’s wedding clients have come from abroad (America, Australia, South Africa) as well as all over Britain because of the trend to hold a wedding in Scotland, with Culzean being a popular choice of venue. June and Nan McDowall, who has been with her for 15 years, have produced all the floral arrangements at Culzean's Victorian Christmas weekends, as well as work in the castle and restaurant throughout the year. June recently installed a computer and has access to broadband by wireless as part of a local pilot project. And she revealed: "A broadband connection is almost a necessity. The floral websites I use regularly contain many graphics which are slow to download otherwise." June intends to do most ordering online in the future, and a website is at the planning stage. She said: "Being able to send and receive pictures of bouquets and floral displays is already proving useful to brides from abroad who are ordering online for their wedding."

MAYBOLE people are being urged to play a part in shaping the town's new church. The aim is to make it a 'community church' and it will be the first significant improvement in community facilities in the town since Carrick Academy was formed more than 150 years ago. Maybole Parish Church will be planned not only as a centre for worship but also to provide facilities for many organisations that currently have difficulty finding suitable premises. Project leader Bill Miller said: "The most important of these organisations are those which provide support for disadvantaged people. "This is one of the core responsibilities of the Christian church, and by combining the resources of the recently united congregations we have the chance to change the way the church operates in the town. "In addition, there are other needs in the town that a project of this kind can address which can make the town a much more attractive place for people to visit and live in.

"This is being enthusiastically supported not only by the Church of Scotland but also by South Ayrshire Council who have assured us that this project is exactly what they believe the community requires, so they have promised whatever support they can legally provide! "However, projects of this kind do not just fall into our laps but will depend on the enthusiastic support of the whole community. "This is not simply a project to replace a couple of 19th Century buildings but one to meet the 21st Century needs of the people of Maybole. Project workers are urging Maybole organisations to contact them. Mr Miller stressed: "Only by identifying themselves and letting us know what their needs are can we begin to design the buildings to meet their needs. "Of course we may not be able to meet everyone's needs exactly, but the more we know the nearer we can get to satisfying the majority. "Individuals can also help us define the shape of the project by writing to us with their ideas for the kind of facilities that might be appropriate." Townsfolk and groups keen to see the project come to a successful conclusion can write to Maybole New Church Project, c/o Hugh Paterson, Secretary, 54 Culzean Road, Maybole, KA19 8AH.

CATHIE Barr, admin assistant with Maybole Access Point, has an invitation to the first-ever Scottish Celebration of Learning, which will be held in Edinburgh next month. During a spell of unemployment, Cathie discovered local training company May-Tag was running introductory computer classes. She signed up for a five-week course, and enjoyed it so much that she followed it up with an administrative course. Cathie also took a more advanced computer course, the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL), which covers word-processing, spreadsheets and databases. The skills she learned led first to a part-time job with May-Tag, then to her current full-time post with MAP. Last week she received an invitation from learndirect Scotland to the special awards ceremony on September 30. Cathie's invitation says: "This first ever Celebration of Learning will recognise and reward the efforts of those people who have shown real commitment in returning to learning, who set a positive example and help show that learning really is for everyone." Last year Cathie was hailed as a 'Champion Learner', and allowed her personal learning experience to be shared with others as a case study. At the Edinburgh celebration, she will be presented with an award for her accomplishments from Deputy Minister for Enterprise and Lifelong Learning Lewis Macdonald. Other learners from across Scotland, plus representatives from selected learning centres and businesses, will join the 2002-2003 champion learners to receive awards. In addition to the awards ceremony, Cathie and a guest will also enjoy an action-packed day out in Edinburgh with a chance to enjoy some of Scotland s top visitor attractions.

A COFFEE morning to raise funds for Christian Aid will be held in Maybole Town Hall next Saturday (September 6) from 10am to 12 noon. There will be stalls, including baking, bottles, bric-a-brac, plants, Tradecraft and face painting.

THE next meeting of Maybole's Opportunities in Retirement group is on Monday, September 1, at 2.30pm in the town hall. There will be a talk from Pamela McCrae about new club 'Class Diamond', based on health and activity, which is starting soon. The OiR will also be taking over Maybole charity shop for a week from next Monday. If you have any clothes, bric-a-brac or books that are no longer needed, the OiR would be happy to takle them off your hands. They can be handed in to the High Street shop. Alternatively, if you would like them collected, contact Pearl on (01655) 883218 or Gillian on (01655) 883054. A raffle will be staged in the shop, and the OiR folk would be pleased to welcome visitors to browse or buy.

MAYBOLE Amateur Swimming Club resumes next week for the 2003-04 session. Opening night is Tuesday, September 1, and the club is keen to attract new members. You must be at least six years old, but there is no upper age limit! Anyone interested in joining, should go along to Maybole Baths at 7pm on Tuesday.

MAYBOLE Town Hall will host the annual afternoon tea organised by Arthritis Research, on Wednesday, September 3 (from 2 to 4pm). Organisers say all are welcome to the popular fundraiser.

100 YEARS AGO - "The sensational trans-Atlantic drama 'The Shadows of a Great City' was produced in the Town Hall on Monday by Mr W.T. Rushbury's powerful dramatic company. As usual, Mr Rushbury produced a really interesting entertainment, the artistes were experienced ladies and gentlemen, the scenery splendid, the dresses magnificent, and the music up-to-date." - report from Maybole correspondent.

August 22nd 2003

ROAD issues dominated discussions between Maybole Community Council and MSP Cathy Jamieson. Councillors highlighted concerns in a number of areas, including the safety of pupils crossing to Carrick Academy. Peter Mason said warning lights and a 20mph speed limit is needed for the notorious stretch. Ms Jamieson recognised the extra danger due to the academy's location on the edge of the town. And she said she would raise the issue in writing with the Transport Minister. The MSP said she would also ask if warning lights and a 20mph limit could be considered. Alex Kelly pointed out that it wasn't unusual to see vehicles overtaking on the 'wrong' side of the traffic island, and the MSP admitted this had happened to her! This led to a discussion on the traffic calming measures at either end of Maybole, which community councillors insist don't do their job. Ms Jamieson acknowledged the council's view, and said she would also raise this issue with the minister. One suggestion was for physical barriers such as chicanes or narrowing a section of the road. The discussion inevitably moved on to the vexed question of the bypass - or lack of it!

Peter Mason said he felt officials in Edinburgh 'took the huff' when a public meeting in Maybole rejected an 'internal bypass'. Ms Jamieson said she wasn't aware of this, adding: "As we all know, plans for a bypass are not in the Scottish Executive's current plans. "However, this does not mean that we shouldn't press the case for the future." Mr Mason insisted a bypass was vital for safety, economic development, tourism and sport. And he highlighted concerns over traffic fumes and buildings cracking in the High Street. Helen Whitefield said it wasn't safe to come out of local shops at times, as lorries mount pavements and wing mirrors clip each other. Prams have to go on the road to pass each other, and it's the same for electric buggies. Mrs Whitefield added that the proposed bypass line would eliminate the accident blackspot at Smithston Bridge. Jim McDermott expressed concern that new proposals for an Alloway 'link' road could mean less urgency for a bypass. Ms Jamieson said she welcomed the multi-million pound investment in the A77, but she added: "I know there are strong feelings that the whole upgrade will not be completed until Maybole is bypassed." Peter Mason suggested that perhaps 'Mandarins ruled' in Edinburgh, but Ms Jamieson replied: "They may have in the past, but not now."

Street lighting was the next topic, with Alex Kelly saying certain parts had not been upgraded, and a light in Whitehall had not been repaired, despite complaints over several months. Mr Kelly added: "The light on the last island on Kirkoswald Road has been out for eight months. I have continually phoned Amey, and been passed from pillar to post. "What is the point of an island without a light?" Peter Mason then raised the matter of the lack of grass verge cutting on the approaches to Maybole, and Ms Jamieson said she welcomed comments on the performance of how contracts are being fulfilled. The town's railway station was also discussed, and labelled a disgrace due to rubbish thrown there by litter louts. Since the meeting, work has started on grass verges, and Amey report the light in question has been repaired. Ms Jamieson has spoken to Network Rail who said they would send out a cleaning team to deal with Maybole Station. Network Rail is legally obliged to clean the station twice a year, and say they clean Maybole seven times - the last occasion being June 30.

A GROUP from Maybole Historical Society visited the Arran Heritage Museum in Brodick. An early start avoided trouble getting on board the ferry - even though their visit coincided with the Arran Highland Games. But more than 400 other passengers were left behind at Ardrossan pier on a very busy day. On arrival at the museum, Grace Small and Tom McLeod, president and secretary respectively of the Arran Heritage Trust, gave members a cup of tea in the Caf Rosaburn while they found out exactly what the Maybole group were interested in. Starting off in the family history and archive centre, a comprehensive insight was given as to the requirements of establishing and running a heritage centre with all the successes and pitfalls explained in detail. In all it was a very successful visit, with everyone being left to ponder over whether anything similar, even on a much smaller scale, would be possible in Maybole. Finally, having been unsuccessful in their attempts to repatriate a Jack's tractor rake, the group had time to make a short visit to the Highland Games to see Maybole Pipe Band performing before returning to the mainland on what was again a very busy ferry in mid-afternoon.

THE woman co-ordinating Maybole's drive to get Broadband Internet access is delighted to see Cathy Jamieson MSP backing the campaign. Sarah Anderson said at the weekend: "Our registrations have increased to 98 - only two away from the magic number of 100 when things can really start moving." Sarah would be even more pleased to hear that the total had reached 125 before the end of this week. She has been in touch with BT, who tell her 150 registrations are needed for them to provide a trigger level. And once this is reached, BT will look at the exchange, costs involved and number of lines in the area to define how many registrations are needed before the exchange is 'broadband enabled'. Sarah pointed out: "We now have backing from almost every politician in the area, but we need people to continue to register their interest." Laid low by a throat infection, Sarah has been unable to start door-to-door canvassing, but this is something she hopes to get under way as soon as she can. She also intends to get in touch with Maybole Business Association to go along and talk to them after her infection clears up. Sarah said: "I thought last week's Ayrshire Post article was great. I am very positive and looking forward to seeing more registrations!" Sarah has recently changed her telephone number and can now be contacted on 07906 383820.

WHO says you can't have fun at school during the summer holidays? You can . . . if you're a member of Maybole After School Care (MASC). For the project went right through the holidays, providing care, educational pastimes and loads of fun. The youngsters and their leaders even hosted their very own fun day at Gardenrose Primary School, where the project is based. And they had some highly entertaining stalls and attractions, as you can see from our pictures. The fun day, together with an earlier bag-packing enterprise at Maybole's Safeway store, raised more than 400 for MASC. And the cash was used to take the youngsters on a super day-out to Strathclyde Park, where they enjoyed the thrills of Scotland's top fairground. MASC can take youngsters from three to 16, although it's mostly primary-age children who are regular attenders. Pupils from Cairn and St Cuthbert's schools happily mingle with those from Gardenrose, and the project is open from 2.45 till 6pm. Now MASC is investigating the possibility of opening before-school too, to meet a need for working parents. And during the holidays, it offered full-time care from 8am till 6pm. See more photos here

MAYBOLE'S 7th Ayrshire Scout Group starts back on Monday (August 25). Beavers (boys aged 6-8 years) meet in the Scout Hall, Whitehall, from 6-7pm. And Cubs (boys aged 8-10 ), meet from 7- 8.30pm. Scouts (boys from 10 -15 years) meet on Thursdays from 7-9pm. Anyone interested should go along on the night or phone Jackie Boughen on 01655 882683.

LOOKING BACK: 25 YEARS AGO - Jean McMillan, the only competing female member of East Ayrshire Car Club, earns her a place in the final of Ford's 'Find a Lady Rally Driver'. Jean (26) of Alloway Road, Maybole, returns from success in her Ford heat in Yorkshire to DEFEAT husband John - the reigning champ - in the club's summer tests at Turnberry.

50 YEARS AGO - A Maybole man sails from Liverpool for a holiday in the USA and Canada, after retiring from the City of Glasgow Police. Former Inspector Hugh Gray, brother of Maybole Provost James Gray, started out in engineering with Jack & Sons, but his apprenticeship was interrupted by the First World War, and he won the Military Medal. He completed his apprenticeship with Harland and Wolff in Glasgow, but joined the police in 1923, serving for 30 years.

August 15th 2003

MAYBOLE now has another four computers on which people can gain free Internet access or send free e-mails. Two of the computers are in May-Tag's headquarters at Maybole Castle, and the others are at Maybole Access Point (MAP), 76 High Street. The PCs and Internet availability have been funded by the Scottish Executive, in a move to give all communities the most modern and fastest means of communication. The new project was officially launched last week when MSP Cathy Jamieson visited the MAP office. The local member of the Scottish Parliament, who is also the Justice Minister, commented: "I was delighted to have been invited along to see the new computer equipment available to the local community in Maybole Access Point. "The Scottish Executive are determined to increase the public availability of IT and Internet access. The Internet is becoming ever more important as a way to access information and services." She continued: "Not everyone has a computer at home, so it is important that we provide access to the Internet to all members of the community, particularly in rural areas." Through May-Tag at the castle, Maybole Access Point in the High Street, and Maybole library, local people now have the chance to reap the benefits of getting online, and I would urge them to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the Internet." Christine Kennedy of MAP pointed out: "There is no limit to how often the computers can be used by individuals or groups. In fact, the more people who use them, the better." Christine, who runs the MAP project, said she and assistant Cathie Barr will be happy to show visitors how to access the services. At May-Tag, people should ask for Grace Barrie or Sam Campbell, and they will be given free access to the PCs. People can send e-mails to families and friends abroad free, and they can access the local website which boasts thousands of Maybole pictures and lots of local information. Regional and national agency websites can also be contacted, enabling people to access details of services, social benefits, job vacancies and Government policies.

MAYBOLE'S campaign to gain broadband access to the internet got a boost with backing from MSP Cathy Jamieson. But Sarah Anderson and Simon Gray, who launched the campaign, unfortunately couldn't be at the meeting when Cathy pledged her support. The pair have urged local residents and businesses to log on to the website www.broadbandformaybole.co.uk Broadband is the term used for a high band width Internet connection capable of transmitting data at a much faster rate than standard modem connections. The service is always on, so users don t have to dial up every time they want to log on. And that means no more engaged tones or delays. A broadband Internet connection also means users can make and receive telephone calls while on line, saving on the cost of a second telephone line in hundreds of homes. June Dunlop, who has a business in the High Street, already has access to broadband by wireless as part of a local pilot project, and says it is so much faster. Sam Campbell uses broadband at May-Tag, who also have wireless access as part of the pilot. And he says it's like 'comparing a champion race horse with a donkey'. Bank manager Senga Ferguson says the facility is a huge bonus for people whose time is limited, as 'the sheer speed of broadband makes time spent surfing the internet more enjoyable, as you don't have to wait relentlessly for pages to open'. Jim Hastings runs his human resource management consultancy business from home, and he too says broadband brings great benefits.

But only 87 Maybole people have so far registered with BT for broadband. And Jim says he has been unable to get any 'trigger' total at which BT would commission a survey of the exchange - never mind install broadband. Dave Killicoat, of Maybole Historical Society, says his members and the public would benefit from faster access to what is a great resource in researching family and local history. Cathy Jamieson said: "I have supported campaigns for broadband in communities across Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley and I am pleased to give my backing to the Broadband for Maybole campaign. "The possible benefits to the local community and local businesses from broadband Internet access could be huge, and I don t want my constituents in Maybole to miss out." But she admitted: "The campaign will not succeed overnight, as we must first persuade BT to introduce a trigger level for the local telephone exchange. "However the message of the campaign is clear - if you want broadband for Maybole you must register now!" The MSP pleaded to local people: "Contact your current Internet service provider, or BT, and let them know that the demand exists in Maybole for broadband. "I am regularly in contact with BT Scotland to monitor the number of registrations and look at ways of promoting local interest in broadband. "As the number of registrations increase in Maybole I will continue to press BT to set a trigger level for the local exchange." Sarah and Simon have previously highlighted that Broadband is already available in Ayr, Alloway, Prestwick and Troon. They have been busy distributing leaflets round the town to encourage more people to join the campaign. Anyone who is interested in pushing for broadband to be made available locally can leave their details at Maybole Access Point or the Resource Centre offices in the High Street; or log on to www.broadbandformaybole.co.uk; or call Sarah on 07984 925930.

SPORT in Carrick was handed a triple boost with South Ayrshire Council providing cash for cycling, angling and roller-blading. Girvan Cycle Race gets 10,000 - giving an early guarantee that it will take place at Easter next year. Mochrum Angling Club nets 10,000 - towards a 27,000 clubhouse with disabled access at their loch near Maybole. A Rollerblade Park is set to be created in Maybole, with the council picking up the 20,000 tab.

The long-established Girvan cycle race didn't take place in 2001 due to foot and mouth, and was also cancelled in 2002. Many doubted if the race brought any economic benefits to the area - other than to a few Girvan hotels. But a council report into this year's race showed a net economic benefit of more than 27,500. And it suggests that complementary events might be held to boost the race's profile with more people. The 10,000 pledge came from the council's rural communities committee, chaired by Councillor Paul Torrance. He said: "Any event that can bring people into South Ayrshire and boost the local economy is good news. "However, there are several areas in which I feel the format of the race could be improved, and the council will be working closely with the race organisers on these aspects of the event."

Councillor Torrance's committee also pledged 10,000 for Mochrum Angling Club - subject to the club securing the rest of the cash for a 27,000 clubhouse. The new building will have an access ramp made from recycled plastic, and will also have a disabled toilet and washroom. Formed in 1979, the club leases a fishery at Mochrum Loch from Cassillis Estates. Membership is open to all, and the club aims to promote and encourage the fly fishing.

The rural communities committee is also prepared to make a 10,000 contribution towards a new rollerblade park in Maybole's Ladywell Terrace. Local member Councillor Andy Hill is backing the venture, and is seeking a further 10,000 from the council's community enhancement budget. There has been a roller hockey surface at the site - a former factory base - since 1998. But leisure trends have changed, and users of the park have created some informal equipment of their own on the site. Now South Ayrshire Council looks prepared to spend 20,000 on specialist rollerpark gear. Items will include: a funbox, a volcano, an inclined grinder, a kinked grinder, a purpose-built quarter pipe, and a mini quarter pipe. The park will be operated and maintained by the council, and annual costs have been estimated in the region of 1,500.

A WALL problem in Maybole is much bigger than first thought, says South Ayrshire Council. Emergency repairs were carried out on retaining walls at the front of houses in Miller Terrace. But now a much bigger project is planned to try and solve the problems of a sloping site. The council says new work is desirable from a community safety point of view. Councillor Andy Hill pointed out: "The emergency situation which arose required the council to act swiftly to ensure the safety of all concerned. "The revised plan has been designed, and the tenders for this phase will be returned to the council shortly. "The necessary legal process will then be followed, and it is expected that work on the revised scheme will begin in late September." The council leader and local member added: "The residents within the houses have co-operated with the council on this project, and once completed the works will definitely enhance the houses and the surrounding area."

LOOKING BACK: 25 YEARS AGO - Karen Paterson is one of Maybole Amateur Swimming Club's brightest prospects, collecting an impressive array of trophies in only two years of competitive swimming. Karen (14) lives in the town's Roderick Lawson Terrace.

August 8th 2003

A ONE-WOMAN business has celebrated its first anniversary - against all the odds. Eyebrows raised and heads shook in disbelief when Jane Martin opened a specialist shop in Maybole. The viability of such an operation was greeted with scepticism - but Jane's Delicatessen has proved the doubters wrong. And on Friday, she marked up her first year in business. Happy Jane said: "I owe so much to the support of the people of Maybole and the surrounding area. "Clearly, when we first opened, we had a great many people visiting just to see what we had to offer but, to my great delight, my customers have stuck with me and told their friends. They have been amazing! "The other key thing is my staff. I feel all my customers get a warm and friendly welcome and great service. That's what I'd expect as a customer, and I won't comprise on this." Opening the shop was something of a leap into the dark for Jane, but she acknowledges the help she received from an agency which aims to help people set up on their own.

Jane said: "I would advise all business start-ups to contact the Small Business Gateway in Burns Statue Square in Ayr. "They offer free advise on business planning, potential sources of start-up funding and loads of other things that are a great help. "Once you are up and running, they are still there for you. The only other person who will take such a keen interest in how you are doing is your bank manager!" The shop carries many Scottish products: cheese from Arran, Dunlop and other parts of the country, chocolate made to Belgian recipes in Bearsden, Arran Oatcakes and home-made tablet from Fenwick. But perhaps one of the most popular memorable things is the fresh bread and pastries baked throughout the day every day. Jane wants her customers to join in celebrating the first anniversary. She pointed out: "We'll try to make it a birthday week to remember so why not come on in and see what offers we have got in place." Jane's Delicatessen is located at the entrance to the free public car park at 25 High Street, Maybole, beside Safeway.

NEW group Art About gained a Lotto award of 4,823 to run summer workshops for children living in rural communities of South Ayrshire. The project is this week in Maybole, following successful weeks in Coylton, Maidens, Kirkmichael and Mossblown. Youngsters have experienced art with a difference, creating impressive works with everyday objects like sponges, polystyrene shapes and wallpaper.

Art About is a non-profit-making organisation with charitable status. It was founded in January of this year by visual artists Pamela van de Brug and Rachel O'Neill. Both graduated with honours degrees from Glasgow School of Art in the year 2000. And they are convinced art is an invaluable tool in helping young people develop their full expressive potential. Art About also takes its programme to primary schools, and anyone interested should contact Pamela on 07919 106332. Our photographer caught up with the busy group during their week in Kirkmichael.

CARRICK Crime Prevention Panel has an envied reputation for keeping a high profile in the local community. And they simply couldn't miss an opportunity like the British Seniors Open at Turnberry. In conjunction with Strathclyde Police, the panel took a stall in the tented village. And crime prevention advice was given to hundreds of visitors who turned out to watch the veteran golf stars in action. Advice leaflets highlighted steps to take in order to help prevent the theft of expensive clubs and other golf gear. There was also a free prize draw which involved answering questions on crime prevention matters. The collection of prizes included a home security system donated by Mossie and Kirkland, a Ping golf putter donated by Ping, an 18-year-old malt whisky and decanter donated by Girvan distillers William Grant & Sons, and a bottle of Scotch donated by Ballantynes. Both the panel and Strathclyde Police later thanked everyone who took time to visit the display and enter the competition - with special thanks to the companies which so generously donated the prizes.

A MAYBOLE man died in a road accident on the A77, around two miles north of the town. William Milligan (68), of Cairnfield Avenue, was a front-seat passenger in a Vauxhall Astra being driven by his 64-year-old wife Jean. Their car was involved in a collision with a Ford Escort driven by an 18-year-old woman who appears to have lost control of her vehicle. Mr Milligan died at the scene of the accident. Mrs Milligan and the young woman were taken to Ayr Hospital for treatment to minor injuries. The collision occurred around 9.40am on Thursday of last week (July 31), near the bend at the Smithston railway bridge. Police say the 18-year-old woman driver lost control of her southbound Escort, and collided with the northbound Astra. A report on the accident will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal at Ayr. Meanwhile, Sergeant Sandy Douglas of the Strathclyde Police traffic department is appealing to anyone who witnessed the crash to contact him. You can contact him, at Ayr police office on 01292 664000.

A CHARITY dance in aid of Heartstart and Cancer Research is being organised for Maybole Town Hall later this year. The function is scheduled for Saturday, October 11, by the local Apprentice Boys and the music will feature the band "Country Blues" and a flute band from Blackpool. Tickets are priced £5, and can be reserved by phoning 0775 2815033.

A LOT of families experience problems caused by drug and alcohol addiction. And Susan Chan of Bridge Addiction Services would like to assure families in Carrick that they need not face them alone. She said: "Carers and families are important for communities like Carrick, and we can provide for families through our Carer s Support. This can provide information, support and advice to carers where there is substances misuse. "And we can provide an outreach to families in their own community." Anyone interested in the service can contact Susan on 01292 287777 during office hours.

MAYBOLE Historical Society swings back into action this Saturday (August 9) with a trip to Arran. And a few places are still available if anyone fancies a day out on the island. A minibus leaves from the station car park at 8.15am, heading for Ardrossan to catch the ferry to Brodick, where there will be a visit to Arran Heritage Museum.  To book a place call Helen McAdam (01655 884225) or Dave Killicoat (07776 445033). The cost is £15, including minibus and ferry fares and museum entry. The society has also arranged a visit to Blairquhan on Tuesday evening, September 9. The visit will include a tour of the gardens and house, with its small museums and tremendous collection of paintings, drawings and old maps. Sandwiches and wine will be enjoyed at the end of the tour. Cost is £8 per head, with some transport available from Maybole. Numbers are limited, so if you would like to go, let Helen or Dave know at or before the Society s opening meeting of the new 2003/04 session on Monday, September 1. Dane Love will be the speaker at this meeting, presenting an illustrated talk on 'The Covenanters'. National Doors Open Day is on Sunday, September 7, and Maybole Castle will be open to the public from 10am to 12 noon, and 2 to 4pm. Society members will lead guided tours of the castle as well as a walk round 'Old Maybole'. There will be local history displays, and help with family history research. Refreshments will be available. Society vice-chairman Dave Killicoat said: "We are looking forward to an interesting autumn session and we are also looking at visits to Kilkerran and Kilhenzie. "We would also like to hear from anyone else who can assist on doors open day at the castle, or who would like to offer their services as society secretary."

A YOUNGSTER fizzing with talent is Rebecca Graham of Maybole who won a heat of the 'Pepsi Young Entertainer' competition. The five-year-old from Cassillis Road impressed the judges with a great version of 'Tomorrow' from the hit musical 'Annie'. Rebecca received a winner's medallion, certificate and baseball cap after winning her heat at Pontin's Southport centre, Ainsdale Beach, Merseyside. And the songbird schoolgirl has been invited to a special weekend (November 14-16) at Pontin's Prestatyn Sands centre in North Wales where she will line up with other heat winners in the talent finals.

LOOKING BACK: 100 YEARS AGO - Maybole School Board receives a letter of resignation from Cairn School teacher Miss Catherine S. Bell, who is emigrating to South Africa. Board chairman Thomas Smith says he is sorry the area is losing a good teacher. The vacancy is to be advertised at a salary of 65 per annum.

August 1st 2003

DUE to a number of unavoidable circumstances, it had been three years since the previous Galloway pilgrimage to Lourdes. So perhaps that 'starvation' helped to make this year's pilgrimage so successful and so enjoyed. Of course, the weather helped (even though the temperature reached 37 and more on several days, it was good to have constant sunshine); also the lack of any mishaps en route or in Lourdes. But the main reason for the pilgrims' happiness was undoubtedly the graces and blessings, mediated through Mary, that brought a real sense of God's presence among us, enabling us to pray and to play, to serve and to be served in such an atmosphere of freedom and contentment. The Galloway pilgrims travelled by plane from Prestwick, by coaches from Ayrshire and by Jumbulance.

We did all the usual things in Lourdes: Mass at the grotto, blessing of the sick, torchlight procession, as well as the baths, Stations of the Cross, Rosary (the Mysteries of Light), St. Margaret's statue (Scotland is the only nation with its own shrine in Lourdes). We also had opportunities for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and of the Sick. Sick pilgrims were comfortably accommodated in the refurbished and modernised Accueil St. Frai and were looked after by Galloway Lourdes Hospitalit members: doctor, nurses, male and female helpers and Fr. Alistair Tosh, chaplain, under the guidance of our president, Mrs. Therese Gibson. Galloway Youth for Lourdes, led by Fr. Jim Hayes, were an inspiration, not only their cheerfulness and high spirits, but also their unfailing willingness to push wheelchairs, to take the sick on shopping expeditions, to entertain and to edify us all. The young people had come in big numbers this year. In fact, the Galloway pilgrimage was the largest for many years, and we were delighted to have eight priests from the diocese, including Bishop Maurice Taylor, our leader, and Mgr. Joseph Boyd VG, our director.

One very special pilgrim was Canon Tom Murphy (parish priest of Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Patrick's, Auchinleck) who had just celebrated the diamond jubilee of his ordination. A seminarian in Paris before the Second World War, he had to flee from France, just managing to keep ahead of the advancing German armies and to escape on the last ship to leave St. Malo for England in 1940. For many years he was our pilgrimage director and he is still an eager and exemplary participant in our pilgrimages. This year, the local bishop and the grotto authorities bestowed on him the title of Chaplain of Honour and awarded him the pectoral cross that goes with the title. During the pilgrimage we kept in mind this year's Lourdes theme (one people from many nations) as well as our own diocesan plan (embracing the future) 

Bishop Taylor, presiding at the closing ceremony of the pilgrimage (called 'the sending forth'), reminded us that we were returning to Galloway, not only to reminisce about a wonderful experience, but to be a Church where lay people will be more involved and with greater responsibility, but also where we shall all be trying to implement the Holy Father's call to spiritual and pastoral renewal, seeking to be a holy people. And so we returned safely and contentedly to Scotland, looking forward to our next Galloway Lourdes Pilgrimage from July 11 to 18, 2005. (Taken from the Galloway Diocese website) Also see photos taken by Cannon McGarry from St. Brigid's Church.

TWO prominent Maybole landmarks are the target of new housing developments. Plans have been lodged for the conversion of the B-listed Old Parish Church in the town's Cassillis Road. And in a separate application, there are similar plans for the conversion of the West Parish Church in Coral Glen. The move by the Maybole New Church Project follows a resolution to unite the existing Old and West Church parishes. The aim is to build a new church centre in Maybole at which point the existing churches would cease to be used by the Church of Scotland. And a recent study by the committee has identified the possibility of the buildings being converted into houses. The application to convert the Old Parish Church into 12 flats and the West Parish into three residential units of 10 houses will be considered by South Ayrshire Council's planning committee next week. However, in their report to the meeting, planning officials have recommended that, in the case of the Old Parish Church proposal, they be given delegated powers to approve the application subject to conditions. In respect of the West Parish Church application, they have recommended approval subject to conditions.

MAIDENS couple William and Elizabeth Finlayson celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary with family and staff at Fairknowe House Nursing Home in Maybole. Bill is a resident in Fairknowe where the staff went out of their way to make the occasion a very special one for the family. The couple also received Royal congratulations from the Queen on their special day. Bill and Elizabeth (nee Moodie) met in Bishopbriggs when he was stationed with the army there and Elizabeth was a telephonist in the local exchange. They were married in Torrence Church. Bill, who was in the civil engineering sector of the building trade all his working life, travelled extensively during his career. He was involved in projects as far afield as Saudi Arabia, Holland, Venezuela, South Africa, Rhodesia and Nigeria. He also joined and ran the Maidens branch of his brother-in-law's building firm Andrew McCracken and Company, just after the War. And during one of his spells working in Scotland, he helped to build the Bruce Hotel, now known as Wildings, in Maidens around 1970.They're licence holders now

FIVE more students at a Maybole training agency have qualified as drivers - computer drivers, that is. They have completed a May-Tag course that has earned them their European Computer Driving Licence. The six are Ian Mullet, Kathryn East, Morag Wallace and Eileen Brigden.

MAYBOLE'S brand new resource centre is already an international success. Visitors from as far afield as Australia and America are among the hundreds of people who've benefited from the town centre facility since it opened its doors two weeks ago. And staff have been praised by visitors and organisers, who say their hard work and dedication are ensuring the centre's success. Elizabeth Blair and Eleanor Jamieson were employed by May-Tag to provide a range of services, including free Internet, tourist information and help with local and family history. Dave Killicoat of Maybole Historical Society explained: "We thank the ladies who staff the office for their patience, knowledge and perseverance in assisting visitors to find the information they want. We have received nothing but praise for the local and family history centre and this is due almost entirely to them. "The project, funded by South Ayrshire Council, can also help by printing a range of items.

LOOKING BACK 100 YEARS AGO - 'The factories have now all resumed work after the summer holidays. The weather during the past week was of the most favourable description, and the holidays were much appreciated and will doubtless greatly benefit the workers.' - verbatim report from Maybole correspondent.