From the archives of the Ayrshire Post

25 YEARS AGO

A search and rescue helicopter from HMS Gannet, in Prestwick, was called into action at the weekend to rescue two hill walkers who found themselves in trouble.

The pair lost their bearings on the 2,883ft Ben Ledi, near Callender and were forced to stumble through darkness for more than four hours.

Thankfully, the crew from HMS Gannet quickly identified the position of the hill walkers before they were airlifted to safety.

50 YEARS AGO

Personnel and aircraft from the 819 Squadron, based in Prestwick, have been chosen to take part in some special military exercises in the north east of Scotland later on in the year.

Six naval Sea King helicopters and a number of personnel will take part in a series of exercises, which are believed to be anti submarine exercises.

The exercise will take place off the coast of Orkney, probably in September, and involves a number of other armed forces .