A POPULAR restaurant with outlets in Ayr, Prestwick and Ardrossan hopes to taste success in a national competition.

Cecchini’s have been confirmed as a finalist in the fourth annual Scottish Italian Awards.

There were more than 55,000 votes cast in the competition which is partnered by our sister papers, The Herald and Evening Times.

Each venue will be visited by independent judges over the next few weeks to determine the best in several categories. 

Among the titles up for grabs are Business Person of the Year; Wine List; Gelateria; Deli/Café; Fish and Chip Shop and Best Pizzeria.
A gala awards final will take place on Sunday, November 13, at the Double Tree by Hilton hotel in Glasgow.

Guests will enjoy a drinks reception, followed by a four-course meal and an after-show party at the Cotton Club Casino.

Warren Paul, chief executive of the awards, said: “ I congratulate the finalists’ achievement, wish them every success and hope to see them all at our gala final.”