A DELIGATION from Ayr is making a transatlantic journey to deliver a gift.

The journey goes full circle with a gift from the people of Ayr to the town’s Canadian namesake to celebrate the towns’ shared history as part of the country’s 150th birthday celebrations, with its distinctive spire and winding River Nith there’s a distinctly Scottish feel to Ayr, Ontario.

John Galt from Irvine, the famous novelist, became the secretary of the Canada Company in 1824 and encouraged emigration to the area.

In 1840 a post office was established near the settlement of Mudge’s Mill which became known as Ayr, and eventually replaced the old settlement name.

The Canadian town currently has a population of around 4,100.
Given their shared history, the two towns have enjoyed links in the past and in August 1969 a painting called “Cedar Creek entering the Nith River” by Peter Etril Snyder, was donated to the burgh.

Provost, Helen Moonie, said: “People from Ayrshire settled abroad in their thousands in the 19th century, helping to shape new towns around the world, which is something we should celebrate.

“Our ties with Ayr, Ontario are plain to see, and it’s fitting that we continue to explore our shared bonds which stretch back through generations and make them relevant to people living in both communities today.

“I’m sure the gesture will be appreciated and with the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra also playing at the event I’m sure we’ll leave a lasting impression.

“I look forward to strengthening our ties in future and would welcome a delegation from our Canadian namesakes should they ever choose to return to their spiritual home.”