Hub to open for women

want to do a lot of empowerment.” The co- founders of the community interest group aim to fill in the gaps left by other services and groups. They will work in partnership with a professional support network to signpost women.

Mum- of- one Angie- Leigh, 39, of Coylton, said: “It is probably one of the biggest projects this area has seen for a long time. It will be massive to get it up and running. It looks like it is going to take off. We have no limits and there will be no boundaries.”

Empowerment workshops, self defence, sexual health surgeries, support for gender- based violence will also be on the agenda.

Gabriella, 26, works with women who have been victims of domestic abuse to portray their story in plays. She said they have found the experience of creatively expressing their stories as empowering.

She said: “Artistic workshops are used in Europe as therapy and I think this is something that would work here.”

Angie Leigh added: “Our aim is to open a warm, friendly walk- in premises in Ayr, where women can go to socialise, learn and empower each other through our free workshops, surgeries and classes. We are also a bridge to several amazing third sector groups, Unity Grill, Blue Triangle and Moving on to name a few.” The pair are in the process of finding premises in the town and hope to open the hub in the Spring next year.

They are kicking off the community interest group with a fundraiser showing one of Gabriella’s plays in Ayr Town Hall on Saturday, December 9.

Her work “Soulmate”, is a verbatim play that tackles the issue of psychological domestic abuse. There will also be a raffle, home- baking and a local arts and crafts stall.

All funds raised from tickets will go towards the initial start- up costs of the project.

It will take place during the 16 Days of Action campaign, which opposes domestic violence.

To get tickets check out www. indiegogo. com/ projects/ ayrshirewomens- hub- community#/.

To learn more and get involved v i s i t : www. facebook. com/ ayrshirewomenshub or telephone: 07495310364.

Green fingers Ayr and District Flower Club held a wonderful evening earlier this month. The group gathered on November 9 at Kyle Academy to celebrate their club. Post photographer Iain Brown popped into to meet the lovely folks. Pictured is Stella Reid...

Girl power Gabriella Baronello and Angie- Leigh McPike