Andrew Gilchrist (1929-2023), meteorologist, Director of Research of Met Office, president of the Royal Meteorological Society [23] The land on which Darvel was built was owned by Earls of Loudoun and it was John Campbell, 4th Earl of Loudoun who began the modern town in 1754 as an income for the estate. By 1780, the population had increased to over 400. Loch Gate or Gait was once a significant loch close to the farm of that name, however it was largely drained for agriculture in the 19th century.

When they left me at the hotel, the place was quiet. The lights were dimmed and the desk was deserted but every lounge and much of the carpet were host to sleeping men: resistance fighters. For five years they had opposed the enemy in hazardous clandestine operations. After the surrender they emerged as a force in the return to civilian control. Considering the hatred and bitterness of war it would have been naïve to believe that some had not played a part in reprisals. In the hotel lounge, with automatic weapons in the crooks of their arms, they were sleeping off exhaustion. My nerves were still tingling. I sensed if they were abruptly awakened, their reaction would be to start firing. I crept into a corner and dozed until daylight. No risk of UV - It’s safe to stay outside. 1-2 Low - You can safely stay outside. Consider sunscreen in direct sunlight. 3-5 Moderate - Take care during midday hours and do not spend too much time in the sun unprotected. Sunscreen advised. 6-7 High - Seek shade during midday hours, cover up and wear sunscreen. 8-10 Very high - Spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm. Shirt, sunscreen and hat are essential. 11 Extreme - Avoid being outside during midday hours. Shirt, sunscreen and hat essential. An attractive staircase rises from the reception hall to a broad first floor landing which gives access to a further four generous double bedrooms, master with modern en-suite shower room and wonderful open outlook towards Lanfine Estate plus there are two luxurious family bathrooms on this level. The growth of the town in the eighteenth and nineteenth century was due primarily to the development of the lace industry, and by the end of the 19th century Darvel was the world’s leading producer of lace furnishings. At its height, there were 20 textile mills in Darvel but in the latter part of the 20th century went into decline and the mills have now all gone.

Discover wonderful wildlife tours to book and experience in Scotland, including bird watching safaris, whale watching, farm tours and much more! Historically known as the “Lace Town” Darvel was the centre of the Irvine Valley industry from the 1870’s and famous for its exports throughout the world, as well as being known as the birthplace of Alexander Fleming.

The annual parade or "Prawd", originally held on old New Year's Day, headed by the village band used to walk sunwise round the Dagon stone as a mark of superstitious respect. [17] Miller, Joyce (2005). Magic and Witchcraft in Scotland. Musselburgh: Goblinshead. ISBN 1-899874-46-1 p. 118.Demand for substantial family homes throughout the Ayrshire region remains extremely high therefore early viewing is recommended. Robbie Neilson insists Hearts demolition of Aberdeen means NOTHING and Hibs cup clash is biggest game We crashed down and bounced sideways into the lake. Peat-coloured water flowed around and over us. At first my leg was jammed and I became resigned. But, when it came free, I paddled desperately up to the surface. Seething Willie Miller rips into Aberdeen 'torture' as ashen-faced Jim Goodwin admits 'we’re deeply sorry'