Tempany Grace

South Ayrshire Council’s unaudited 2025/26 accounts show that one departing employee received an exit package worth £151,781, while three others received a combined £166,039. Total employee exit-package costs rose to £317,820 from £85,235 the previous year. The figures were published after an eight per cent council-tax increase intended to help close an £8.463 million funding gap. The accounts also show that senior employees received combined remuneration of about £1.39 million, amid changes in the council’s leadership and several six-figure salaries.

Prestwick veterans Mary and John Quick received extensive help from the RAF Benevolent Fund after damp damaged their home and health problems limited their mobility. The fund arranged an occupational therapy assessment, paid for essential repairs, supplied two mobility scooters and a stairlift, provided John with a riser recliner chair, and helped Mary access disability allowance. The support has reduced financial and physical strain, restored the couple's independence and enabled John to use his scooter daily. They are encouraging other serving and former RAF personnel and their families to seek assistance, including at the fund's fourth year as charity partner of the International Ayr Show.

Police data obtained by the Ayr Advertiser shows nearly 30 weapons-related crimes in the KA19 postcode area of South Ayrshire, including incidents involving two samurai swords, a slingshot, a truncheon, air weapons, knives and improvised weapons. The report details offences and weapon seizures between 2022 and 2025, including assaults, property damage and unlawful possession of firearms and zombie knives. Police Scotland Chief Superintendent Suzanne Chow said tackling violence remains a priority and urged the public to report information.

Police Scotland found five air rifles and other offensive weapons in properties across Troon, Monkton and Prestwick between February 2022 and December 2025, where owners lacked the required certificates or had stored the weapons unsafely. More than 70 weapons-related crimes were recorded in the KA9 and KA10 postcodes, including incidents involving knives, improvised weapons, a hypodermic needle and zombie knives. Chief Superintendent Suzanne Chow said violence reduction remains a priority and highlighted patrols, prevention initiatives and public reporting.

Gordon McBlain and Steven Corrigan have handed over Ayr's Home Bakery after owning and operating the business since 2002. After their final trading day on July 30, Stobbs the Baker will take over the George Street premises from August 3, continuing to make the bakery's well-known pies and potato scones on site. Staff member Sandra will remain, and the former owners thanked customers for their support over 24 years.

Police Scotland data obtained through a Freedom of Information request shows more than 180 weapon-related crimes in the KA8 postcode area, covering Prestwick and parts of northern Ayr, since 2022. Officers seized two zombie knives alongside knives, swords, cleavers, a hatchet, a chainsaw, an airsoft pistol and improvised weapons. The incidents included alleged robberies, threats and unlawful possession. The report notes that a ban on zombie-style knives and machetes took effect in September 2024, while the UK Government later banned ninja swords under Ronan’s Law. Police Scotland says violence reduction remains a priority and urged the public to provide information.

Ayr busker Charlie Mcnally, who experienced homelessness and more than two decades of addiction, says art and music played a major role in his recovery and improved mental health. After nearly dying from undiagnosed Type 1 diabetes, the 38-year-old now busks daily with a ukulele to support himself, following a reduction in his benefits. Inspired by having his first play performed at the Girvan Arts Festival and by self-publishing two books, he hopes to establish an arts group connecting creatives with people recovering from addiction. Mcnally wants to make creative opportunities more accessible to people facing stigma, isolation and financial barriers.

Police Scotland confirmed that Rachel Pokutova, who had been reported missing from Ayr, was traced. The force thanked members of the public who assisted by sharing its appeal.

Data obtained through a Freedom of Information request shows 101 weapon‑related crimes in the KA7 area of Ayr since 2022, involving items ranging from knives and golf clubs to everyday objects such as a traffic cone and garden tools. Several incidents involved assaults and threats with various improvised weapons. Police Scotland emphasises ongoing efforts to address violence through patrols, partnerships and prevention initiatives while urging the public to share relevant information.

Inspectors rated CERA Ayrshire’s housing support service as providing compassionate, person‑centred care, with staff praised for strong knowledge, effective communication and supportive relationships with service users. External professionals and families offered similarly positive feedback. A safeguarding concern was identified, with inspectors noting inconsistent understanding of safeguarding responsibilities among staff, though policies were found to be comprehensive. Previously identified improvements from earlier inspections remain in progress.

A father of three from Ayr diagnosed with stage‑four oesophageal cancer is pursuing private treatment options after being given nine months to live. He is undergoing further scans, consulting specialists in London, and considering a treatment plan from a German clinic costing more than €91,000. Dissatisfied with being placed on immediate palliative care by the NHS, he has launched a fundraiser to access additional medical options and support his family. Recent developments have increased his optimism as he continues seeking alternative treatments.

Inspectors from the Care Inspectorate found that D.I.A.L Network in Ayr continues to deliver safe, effective, person‑centred support for adults with mental health needs or learning disabilities. The service demonstrated strong communication, flexible staffing, and committed leadership, with care plans described as detailed and current. While overall performance remained high, inspectors noted the need for improved oversight of training, supervision, and record‑keeping.

A community-owned pub in Ballantrae, South Ayrshire, has won the Team Spirit award at the Rural Community Business Awards 2026. The King's Arms, purchased by the Ballantrae Trust in 2020 and operated by Ballantrae Community Pub Ltd, was recognised for volunteer efforts that revitalised the village’s last pub. Plunkett UK supported the project as part of wider efforts to expand community-owned businesses across Scotland. Local MP Elaine Stewart praised the volunteers’ dedication.

A community initiative originally launched as Working for Wallacetown has rebranded as Working for Ayr North, expanding its focus to include Lochside, Dalmilling and Whitletts while maintaining its original values. The project highlights reductions in anti‑social behaviour and strong tenant satisfaction, and will continue sharing updates on local projects, safety initiatives and community engagement opportunities through its Facebook page.

Pleasantfield Cottage, a privately run care home for young people in Ayr, received a 'very good' rating from the Care Inspectorate following an unannounced visit. Inspectors highlighted the stability and therapeutic skill of the staff, strong trauma‑informed care, and a nurturing environment that supports young people's emotional and physical wellbeing. Management was commended for effective oversight and consistent quality assurance. Imagine Care welcomed the findings, noting that the recognition reflects the dedication and professionalism of its team.

South Ayrshire Council approved Well Pharmacy’s plans to upgrade its Ayr shopfront with new signage, window displays and illumination. Planning officers judged the designs appropriate for the area and compliant with local guidance, while the Ayrshire Roads Alliance raised no objections. The application was approved subject to conditions.

Ayr Community Fire Station will hold a free open day on July 11, offering families a chance to meet firefighters, explore equipment, and receive home safety advice. Emergency services including Police Scotland, the Scottish Ambulance Service, and HM Coastguard will take part, with additional attractions such as a tombola and a children's magic show.