CONTROVERSIAL plans for a new supermarket on Largs seafront were given the green light back in August 2012/

The Co-operative group applied to North Ayrshire Council to convert around a third of the Escape amusement complex into a food retail outlet.

However, at a meeting of Largs Community Council, amazed committee members discovered that the application had already been approved by the local authority, despite their formal objections. The council had passed it earlier in the month, insisting that they did not infringe upon the local plan.

Property owners B11 llP told the News that the bowling alley facility would remain and would be repositioned within the premises.

Largs pre-school nursery had to be wound up after 40 years in the town. Run by a voluntary committee and funded in partnership with North Ayrshire Council, the decision was taken due to a drop in numbers.

Some mothers said they have been left ‘shocked’ by the turn of events. Catering for three and four year olds, Largs pre-school was based at St Colomba’s Episcopal Hall at Aubery Crescent.

A national ice cream festival in Largs could promised a real ripple effect for local businesses. New events were being proposed by the BIDS committee of the Largs Matters group, to capitalise on the success of the ‘Largs Live’ weekend which had proved a hit with publicans, businesses and the public at large.

Elsewhere, and echoing parallels with the current Sandy Bay situation in Largs, Cumbrae councillors complained about sea grass being left untouched at Kames Bay.

Fears were expressed at Cumbrae Community Council over a study - conducted by the island’s Marine Biological Station - which had seen grass in the bay left uncut for some weeks.

Secretary Christine MacCulloch labelled the situation 'a disgrace'.

The Sail and Oar Festival on the Isle of Cumbrae was hailed a great success back in August 2012. In the Garrison grounds, people were given the opportunity to try out wood carving and rope making. There was lots for children to do with facepainting, sand art, games and rides and children's activities on the beach. Canoes and boats were on display and the RNLI had a stall with gifts on sale. Cumbrae Watersports Centre put on sailing dinghys for all and there were kayaks and canoes available for hire.

Fairlie Gala’s fancy dress party had an Olympic theme and all the children got involved in the celebrations at the village hall and the sun shone on the new 3G Barrfields pitch as it hosted its first ever match.

Largs Thistle draw 1-1 with Kilsyth Rangers, cheered on by a big crowd of 400, which included late lottery winner Colin Weir.

Over 30 budding golfers, aged from five to 12, took to the fairways for a the children’s competition at Largs Golf Club. The trophy was presented by sponsor John Aitken to winner Sean Clement.