Summer Successes

Over the late spring and summer many of our members have celebrated published success.

First of all, big congratulations to Stephen Cashmore on the launch of his book  Three In To One Does Go. ‘It’s marketed as a love story,’ Stephen says, ‘but it’s a bit more than that.’   Published by Sparsile Books in April, the book is available to buy in Waterstones (Ayr) and on Amazon.

Prolific poet Damaris West has had a profusion of her wonderful poetry published in a variety of publications over the past few months.

“Crunch” ( published without a title) in Writer Shed Press’ Whispered words (April)

“Widower” in Black Nore Review (April)

“Lowest ebb” in Ravens Quoth Press’ Mental Health Awareness anthology Shards (May)

“To leave like Anne Boleyn” and “Evening primroses” in Otherwise Engaged Literature and Arts Journal (June)

“Christening photo” in Raising the fifth (August)

“Hand-feeding birds in Rozelle Park, Ayr” in the FWS anthology (August)

“Lochan” in Ink, Sweat & Tears (August)

Phew, Damaris is on a roll!

The work of several of members has been included in the last three issues of Ayrshire Magazine.

March/April: The Fascinating Corners and Curiosities of Ardrossan’s Heritage Trail by Nigel Ward. Nigel explores the industries and history of the Ayrshire seaside town.

Broad Beans, Windowsills and the Perils of Honesty by Chris Palmer.  A gardener’s take on growing tatties, mangetout and reflecting on an outburst of honesty.

Spring Blossoms on the Burnawn Walk by Linda Brown. A glorious springtime hike in East Ayrshire starts with the sighting of a stoat carrying precious ‘cargo’

It’s All Happening at The Corner – Linda Brown reports on a successful community project in Darvel

May/ June : Waves of Memories – by Carolyn O’Hara. A nostalgic reflection on childhood holidays and seaside adventures at Dunure.

On the Edge of Two Oceans by Thomas Malloch. Thomas explores the geological history of the South Ayrshire coast, inspired by the lucky find of a serpentinite stone on the beach.

Painting From Burns to Butlins – Linda Brown visits the Alloway Tunnel Art Project.

 Carrick History Society – Nigel Ward checks out old documents and records ‘revealing Carrick’s corners’

Colour Vision Deficiency, Cosmopolitan and the Delight of Dahlias by Chris Palmer. A clever mix of gardening tips, witty anecdotes and a personal challenge.

What has Walking Football Ever Done For Me. Hamish Husband gives the lowdown on a new and popular version of the beautiful game.

Sport That Wrinkled Care Derides- Sheila Grant looks back at her sporting life – from skipping ropes to lifting weights.

Casting Cloots at Ladyton Loch – by Linda Brown. Looking for sedge warblers and reed buntings on a ‘taps aff’ May day.

July/August :  Seals, Otters and the Isle of Pladda by Chris Palmer – a personal portrait of Kildonan on the Isle of Arran.

Friendship is Constant in All Other Things Save in the Office and Affairs of Love – Sheila Grant reflects on the enduring nature of friendship.

Read All About It – Linda Brown discovers Irvine’s new Nature Library.

Sweetcorn, Sniffer and the Allure of Angel Delight  by Chris Palmer – Chris examines the impact of climate change on gardening with his usual touch of wry humour.

A Trip at Prestwick’s Pow Burn by Linda Brown. Curlew, thistles and an elusive grasshopper warbler on summer ramble.

No Scotland, No Party by Hamish Husband. A personal account about the passion and camaraderie of Scottish football fans at the 2024 Euros

This is an amazing list of our members’ achievements. What a productive club we are. Well done to all.