The year is nearly over - so we thought this would be a great time to look back at some of our best photos and new stories from 2023.

We're starting today with our articles from January to April - with two more instalments to follow in the weeks to come.

Do you remember these Advertiser stories and pictures?

Ayr Advertiser: Our first front page pic of the year showed local residents braving the chill at Ayr's Boxing Day

Our first front page pic of the year showed local residents braving the chill at Ayr's Boxing Day plunge, in aid of Ayrshire Cancer Support.

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Ayr Advertiser: Sacred Heart Primary pupil Shiloh Simpson, 11, wowed Carrick Burns Club with her reading of To A

Sacred Heart Primary pupil Shiloh Simpson, 11, wowed Carrick Burns Club with her reading of To A Mouse in January. She is pictured with chair Shona McIntyre.

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Ayr Advertiser: Barrmill Primary pupils enjoyed caving - and discovering some crabs - during a visit to Dolphin

Barrmill Primary pupils enjoyed caving - and studying some beach life - during a visit to Dolphin House in February.

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Ayr Advertiser: Cutty Sark Centre

The Cutty Sark Centre, Ayr's new events space, officially opened in March.

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Ayr Advertiser: Calum Rae was diagnosed with stage M high-risk neuroblastoma earlier this year - and now his

The family of Troon's Calum Rae, who was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer known as high-risk neuroblastoma, launched a fundraiser to get him to the USA for vital treatment.

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Ayr Advertiser: Marr College pupils had a great day at the SPAR SFA Girls Football Tournament

Marr College pupils had a great day at the SPAR SFA Girls Football Tournament.