GIRVAN 1668 has been awarded some £5,000 from the William Grant Foundation to celebrate the town’s 350 years as a burgh. 

The money will go towards events throughout the year, in Girvan, that the 1668 group are hosting or supporting. 

Celebrations began on Hogmanay before the bells where residents joined in a torchlight procession through the streets of Girvan.

Those who took part met at the Glendoune Centre, walked to Stumpy Tower before reaching the harbourside for a fiery celebration for the launch of Girvan 1668 and the 350th anniversary of the Burgh. 

Roddy MacDonald said: “Our first event was on Hogmanay but we are preparing many other events which will take place throughout 2018. 

“We now have a dedicated group called Girvan 1668 which meets on a Tuesday evening at the Town House.

“We have been meeting once a fortnight but our meetings have stopped until after Easter.

“This year we are going to make plastic coins using a 3D printer provided by the council

“There will be information at the Tourist Information Centre (in the Town House) which is going to be open after Easter. 

“A list of our events and what we are supporting will be available there.

“In November 2017 we came up with the idea to create a separate group to organise the year ahead.

“What the group is trying to do is collect ideas and look at ways in which we can work together.

“We have had great support from the Rev Ian McLauchlan, the South Carrick Councillors, the Depute Head Teacher of Girvan Academy, Alex Scott, representatives from Stumpy Tower, CRAG and The Quay Zone. 

“Girvan 1668 is open to everyone and is a great way to bring people together. 

“These sessions are an opportunity to share ideas and keep momentum going. 

“Our celebration is about celebrating and enhancing what is there. 

“There are some events which will be running anyway which we are supporting and using to promote 1668.”

A list of future events throughout the year will be confirmed at their next meeting on April 10.