From the archives of the Ayrshire Post

25 YEARS AGO

An Ayr youth has been charged with stealing the town’s equivalent of the Crown jewels – the Provost’s mace and chain.

The 18- year- old appeared in private at Ayr Sheriff Court.

He was charged with breaking into the Gallery Room, Rozelle House, Alloway, and stealing a ceremonial chain of office, mace, two chalices and two pieces of Maundy money.

The chain was worn by the former Provosts of Ayr Burgh.

50 YEARS AGO

Following the discovery that cracks in the walls of Littlemill Primary School, Rankinston, had widened the 55 pupils there were given an unexpected holiday.

The children were sent home on Monday and told to remain away from the school until further notice.

Mine working is thought to be responsible for the cracks which were first treated some time ago but widened noticeably at the weekend. The county architect is carrying out an investigation.

100 YEARS AGO

A peace dance took place at the farm of Dowhill, near Girvan, on Friday night.

Upwards of a hundred couples took part in the dancing.

The building was very tastefully decorated for the occasion with British and Allied flags.

Dancing commenced at 9pm and continued into the early hours of the morning.

Refreshments were provided by a number of ladies and the catering gave universal satisfaction.