AILSA Craig's Lighthouse celebrates her 130th birthday this year.

To mark the occasion the McKechnie Institute in Girvan is celebrating the landmark throughout August and September. 

The programme also travels along the South Ayrshire coast, with exhibitions on offer at the McKechnie Institute in Girvan. 

This display includes items on special loan from the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse Museum. 

The 35th Annual ‘Open Art Exhibition’ is displaying works from artists living and working in Girvan and the surrounding areas.

Councillor Brian McGinley, Economic Development, Tourism and Leisure Portfolio Holder for the Council said: “Once again South Ayrshire is attracting some giants from the world of art and design. 

"This summer we have been spoiled for choice with so much talent on display and all for free. With international artists keen to exhibit here, our local artists are sure to be inspired and we are keen to support their endeavours too. 

"Hopefully we can attract even more visitors before the end of summer which is also good for the local economy.”

Ailsa Craig, in the Firth of Clyde, is an Island rising abruptly from the sea to an elevation of 1,110 feet. 

It has a conical summit and is very precipitous except on the North East Side where it slopes more gently and is accessible.

It was famous for a number of years for the curling stones fashioned from its rock. According to the Northern Lighthouse Board, it was here that the curling stones used by the Scottish Women’s Curling Team, Winter 2002 Olympic Gold medal winners, were made.

The lighthouse was automated in 1990 and is now remotely monitored from the NLB offices in Edinburgh. In 2001 as part of the refurbishment and de-gassing programme Alisa Craig Lighthouse was converted to solar-electric power.

Be sure to check out South Ayrshire Council website for more information on the exhibition in Girvan.