AYR 800 events 14/15 May 2005

AS part of the year-long programme of celebrations to mark the 800th anniversary of the granting of Royal Burgh status to the historic town of Ayr by King William the Lion of Scotland, three events are taking place this weekend 14/15 May.

On Saturday 14 May at 7.30pm there is an orchestral and choral concert at Ayr Citadel Leisure Centre. Ayrshire Symphony Orchestra, Ayr Choral Union and Ayrshire Voices, combine to present a programme of music and song to delight and surprise. For further details contact Margo Reader, 12 Carrick Road, Ayr KA7 2RB, telephone 01292 287771.

On Sunday 14 May at the Ayr Citadel Leisure Centre at 7.30pm there is a concert called ‘Fiddles, Strings and all that Jazz’. Ayrshire Schools String Orchestra, South Ayrshire Jazz Band and the Aileen Robertson Highland Dancers display the youthful talent of Ayrshire. details contact Wallace@FiddleOrchestra.com or visit the website: www.fiddleorchestra.com

Earlier on Sunday 15 May there is a guided birdwatching cycle ride around the Burgh of Ayr.
Start:
Blackburn Car Park, seafront, Ayr at 11.00am on Sunday 15 May 2005.
Route:
An easy ride of approx. 15-20km (10-12 miles) around the Royal Burgh of Ayr following cycle paths, footpaths and suburban roads. Several of Ayr’s good birdwatching locations will be visited en route.
Duration:
3 to 4 hours including birdwatching and snack stops.
Arrangements:
· Please register with the leaders/guides at Blackburn car park before taking part.
· Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
· Numbers will be restricted if necessary for safety reasons - timely registration is advised.
· Binoculars are recommended. Some shared use may be possible.
· No catering provided.
Charges:
None. All cyclists are welcome on the ride but entirely at their own risk.
Organisers:
CTC Ayrshire: The Cyclists’ Touring Club, Ayrshire Section
www.lawrie.freewire.co.uk
SOC Ayrshire: The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club, Ayrshire Branch
www.ayrshire-birding.org.uk

About Ayr 800

In 2005 the historic town of Ayr in Scotland marks the 800th anniversary of King William the Lion of Scotland signing a Charter in 1205 proclaiming Ayr to be a Royal Burgh.

Ayr Guildry, an association of local business people which itself dates back to 1325, is currently organising Ayr 800, a 12 month long calendar of events to celebrate the anniversary throughout the year.

Brian Martin of Ayr Guildry said: "It seems fitting and appropriate to celebrate 800 years of Ayr’s history in as many different ways as possible.

"Since the inception of this project, I have been amazed to discover the number and diversity of clubs, associations and groups that flourish in our town. Ayr 800 provides them all with a magnificent opportunity to play a prominent part in our year of celebrations.

"For people and businesses in the hospitality and tourism industry, Ayr 800 offers the chance to attract visitors who might otherwise not have come to our town in 2005.

"And Ayr 800 provides an additional platform for local businesses to promote their products, skills and services to the world."

Brian Martin concluded: "Regular updates to the calendar of events will be posted on the Ayr 800 website at www.ayr800.co.uk

"All businesses, clubs, societies and individuals who would still like to take part in this great celebration of our town’s history will be most welcome, and should get in touch with us as soon as possible."

Enquiries:

Brian Martin, Ayr Guildry. Telephone: +44 (0)1292 442103.
John Hay, Clerk to Ayr Guildry. Telephone: +44 (0)1292 264091.

Website:
http://www.ayr800.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Ayr Guildry by Fame Publicity Services.

Media enquiries:

Murdoch MacDonald
Fame Publicity Services
10 Miller Road
AYR, Ayrshire
Scotland KA7 2AY

Web: www.famepublicity.co.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)1292 281498