PRESTWICK has entered a “golden-age” after being nominated for a UK wide best High Street award.

A resident who runs a Facebook page which spreads positivity on the town’s shops, bars, restaurants and other business is buzzing over the news that her town is in with a chance of being named one of Britain’s best.

Tricia Young has seen her beloved town’s fortunes change over recent years.

Now she wants to see the town’s bustling Main Street given the credit she feels it deserves.

She told the Ayr Advertiser: “We are thrilled. We have so many award winners for local awards. Two that are national award winners.

“I think this is a golden age for Prestwick. I grew up in the 60s, it was a different time and era. Things are just really good now, there’s new shops opening all the time, it’s great.”

Tricia believes that one business has had a huge role in transforming Prestwick’s hub.

She added: “When Colin Blair came to Prestwick, bought the Golden Eagle and transformed it into Elliot’s, that’s when I noticed the difference in Prestwick. It changed it; it became classier.

“From there you have all these other places popping up, it’s a healthy competition. There’s The Buf too which is great, and the young people love it.”

Prestwick was chosen after a rigorous process led by a panel of independent judges who have recognised the UK’s top high streets.

The awards in sponsorship with Visa hope to highlight the positive impact that local high streets have on communities.

And the town was congratulated by Jake Berry MP, who credited Prestfest music festival as a key to bringing success to Prestwick.

Mr Berry said: “Congratulations to Prestwick for being shortlisted for the Champion’s Award for this year’s Great British High Street Awards.

“Great local initiatives like Prestfest music festival - which generated over £350,000 for the local economy last year – have been a recipe for success for this town.”

To vote, visit https://thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk/high-street-of-the-year-awards/champion-award-finalists