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.

Today, we revisit some of our articles from May to August - with one more instalment to follow in the New Year...

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Ayr Advertiser: Ayrshire College students walked from Kilwinning to Kilmarnock in May in memory of Ayr wrestler

Ayrshire College students walked from Kilwinning to Kilmarnock in May in memory of Ayr wrestler Lionheart, raising funds for mental health charities.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Ayr Advertiser: The marvellous Ayr County Show returned in May

The marvellous Ayr County Show returned in May, bringing big crowds to see the livestock as well as the stalls, fun and games on the day.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Ayr Advertiser: Ayr fitness fanatic Martin Boyle set out on 65k run, a 10k swim of Loch Doon to raise funds for the

Ayr fitness fanatic Martin Boyle set out on a 10k swim of Loch Doon and a 65km run alongside the River Ayr, from Glenbuck to the sea, to raise funds for the Ayrshire Hospice charity.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Ayr Advertiser: Big crowds flocked to Victory Park in Girvan for the 40th Carrick Lowland Gathering in June

Big crowds flocked to Victory Park in Girvan for the 40th Carrick Lowland Gathering in June.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Ayr Advertiser: Troon Gala queen Naim Wylie was crowned Gala Quee by Joe Miller

Troon Gala Gueen Naimh Wylie was crowned by Joe Miller.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Ayr Advertiser: The Swords of Dalriadi battle re-enactors were stars at the Prestwick Prom in August

The Swords of Dalriada battle re-enactors were stars at the Prestwick Prom in August.