Ramblers will hit the coastal path

South Ayrshire Ramblers will head for Irvine on Saturday to walk a ten- mile linear stretch of the Ayrshire Coastal Path.

Starting at Irvine Harbour, and following the National Cycle Network routes 7 and 73 for much of the way, it will include some stretches of beach.

The route passes through Stevenston, Saltcoats and Ardrossan, returning by public transport.

Contact Iain McMurdo on 07540 170982. Meet at Prestwick Town railway station car park for 8.50am departure.

On Sunday, Ayr & District Rambling Club will offer two walks. For the more strenuous one, the group will head south near Dailly for a 9.3- mile walk with 490m ascent.

The route starts on a minor road, passing the remains of Old Kilkerran Castle to climb Dobbingstone Hill. From there it crosses rough moorland to reach The Pilot. Following the descent there is a short road section and a walk through the forest.

The final section involves a short stretch of moorland and wind- farm roads with gaiters recommended. Contact Martin on 01465 714554.

The second, and easier, walk of about eight miles will start at Kilmacolm, and walk to Bridge of Weir via the former railway line.

Before reaching the town, the route crosses the old bridge and continues to the River Gryffe and on to Quarriers Village.

The return to Kilmacolm is through fields and finally back along the old railway line. Gaiters are recommended for the riverside section.

Contact Niall Mearns on 07968 749911. Meet at Millbrae car park in Ayr at 8.50am. Newcomers welcome.