The big headlines from South Ayrshire in January 2009

Who can you spot in these pics?

Queen Margaret Academy pupils were treated to a Christmas Show with a difference. Kids took part in a spoof of TV classic Blind Date, with one pupil even dressing up as host Cilla Black for the occasion.

A serving South Ayrshire soldier praised the free facilities available to him in the area. Scott Hunter, 25, was using the Genesis Gymnasia at Ayr’s Citadel to keep fit. It was one of several council facilities which were available free of charge to local troops until March 2009. Scott is pictured with council leader Hugh Hunter.

Bomb disposal experts descended on Heathfield’s Industrial Estate in January 2009 after potential explosives were found at the rubbish dump on Old Farm Road. Roadblocks were put in place while the Royal Logistic Corps Bomb squad used a robot to examine the device. Thankfully the "bomb" turned out to be a false alarm – with claims they had found a theatrical prop.

Students from two Troon schools teamed up to build an oil rig in early 2009. Senior pupils from Marr College challenged the primary seven class of Troon Primary to assemble the model structure using newspapers, tape, a short piece of dowel rod and some string.

Members of the 1st Prestwick Girls Brigade had a superb time at their Christmas party. The theme for the party was New Zealand with girls dressed for the beach and Santa under the umbrella.

Girvan woman Cathy Porter worked hard for months spearheading a fundraising drive which raised more than £400 for a visually impaired group in the town.

Workers at Ayr’s port helped raise a massive £250,000 during a nationwide tandem cycle relay. Staff and management of Associated British Ports’ in Ayr, along with the Troon branch, took part in a nationwide tandem cycle relay in 2009 in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association.