Valley feeling Doon and out
East Ayrshire needs resources
backs and closures, the loss of libraries, playing fields and village halls, local pubs closing their doors... Patna losing its golf course... Cumnock losing its bank... or a village losing its century old bowling club.
The open cast pit “revival” left nothing but scars. And on the hills that overlooked them, they stuck wind farms.
No wonder Mr Lennon feels “abandoned”. He’s certainly not alone.
I always felt East Ayrshire got the blunt end of the knife when they carved up old Ayrshire.
North Ayrshire got the administrative centre of Irvine, the port of Ardrossan and the seaside commerce of places like Largs, Rothesay and Arran.
South Ayrshire got the county town, a port, an airport and miles of beaches and golf courses – from Troon to Turnberry.
And East Ayrshire – a straggly land- locked strip from Lugton to New Galloway – got the leftovers.
Rich in history, rich in scenery and rich in community spirit – but the poor relation in terms of resources.
If ever a corner of our beloved Ayrshire needed a hug – it’s at the top of Blackcraig Hill... for as far as the eye can see!
In the meantime – Mr Lennon and all those who share his disillusionment have a vote on May 4.
They should use it wisely.