AN AYRSHIRE catering and cooking lessons firm has welcomed a special visitor to mark the annual celebration of the area's small businesses.

Elena Whitham, the MSP for Carrick, Cumnock and the Doon Valley, paid a visit to the Home Cook School in Kirkoswald to mark Small Business Saturday.

The initiative is a non-commercial campaign which highlights the success of small businesses not just in Ayrshire but across the UK.

Home Cook School is led by cooking tutor Lindsay Guidi, and is an active member of the Ayrshire Food Network, which offers tailor made cooking sessions for local residents.

Ms Whitham says small businesses like the Home Cook School “have so much to offer” Ayrshire residents - and those living further afield - in the run up to Christmas.

"Small businesses are the lifeblood of our community and local economy," she said.

Read More: Sporting stars return to Ayrshire College after book honour

“This year, to mark Small Business Saturday, I visited the Home Cook School in Kirkoswald to find out more about the business.

"Cook School tutor Lindsay showed me around and I was very impressed with what I saw.

“The Home Cook School offers private cooking lessons, corporate buffets, holiday catering, and a private chef service.

“While Small Business Saturday is the perfect opportunity to celebrate small businesses like the Home Cook School, we should also remember to shop local all year round. Businesses are facing difficult times and we can all play our part in supporting them by prioritising shopping locally.

“With Christmas around the corner, you will be surprised what you can get from local businesses across Ayrshire which have so much to offer.”