A stroll in the park

Councillors will be asked to throw their weight behind an economic game changer for South Ayrshire.

The region could be in line to bid for one of 10 UK Freeport zones which are to be created.

Cri t e r ia states that successful zones must boast good rail, air or sea links in an area of either economic or social deprivation.

South Ayrshire’s Tory leader, Councillor Martin Dowey, is proposing the Ports of Ayr and Troon, Newton Rail Yard and Prestwick Airport for the local bid.

He said: “South Ayrshire ticks all those boxes.

“I wrote to the Prime Minister and the UK Transport Secretary back in August last year, and more recently to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, pushing the case for South Ayrshire and I would like our council’s Administration to commit to a bid.

“In the US Free Ports have created hundreds of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in trade.

Other local authorities have already begun the process of preparing their bids and we simply cannot miss this opportunity to further enhance and build on the already great work the council achieved in securing the Ayrshire Growth Deal.”

On Sunday, South Ayrshire Ramblers are organising a walk of seven to eight miles from Dreghorn to Eglinton Country Park,

Anyone requiring further information should contact the leader Robert Pollock on 01292 315765. Meet at the public car park at Prestwick Town Rail Station at 8.50am for a 9am departure.

A nut is causing fear and alarm among old folk – by placing latex gloves on light fittings.

There’s been at least three incidents within the flats development in Troon’s North Shore Road.

Police are now probing the bizarre goings- on within Sanderling View.

Fire teams have abeen called out after the gloves started melting on the bulbs, causing a burning smell.

All the incidents have been in communal corridors within the 62- flat development and is a mix of between three and five floors.

Paper was also put on a light on one occasion.

One resident said: “We have no idea who is doing this, it is totally irresponsbile.

“It seems to be happening on the first floor so could impact on everyone. When you smell burning like this, you fear the worst.”

Some of the flat owners are quite infirm and unable to move rapidly