Scotland is in lockdown. Shops are closing and newspaper sales are falling fast. We're not exaggerating when we say that the future of the Ayr Advertiser, and the vital local news service we've provided since 1803, is under threat.

Please consider supporting the Ayr Advertiser in whatever way you can – by paying just 90p for a copy of the paper, when you're shopping for essential supplies for yourself and others, or by subscribing to our e-edition here.

Thanks – and stay safe.

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Kind-hearted bikers will still raise funds for sick kids in Crosshouse even if the coronavirus lockdown has cancelled their annual charity run.

Every year since 2003 Hillbillies MCC organise the Easter Egg Run from Mauchline to Crosshouse Hospital.

The club are unable to proceed with the run as planned due to COVID-19 but don’t want the kids to miss out

Members are urging usual participants and residents to donate to allow them to maintain the support they have been able to provide since 2003.

Simon Walker, President Hillbillies MCC Ayrshire, said: “Our fundraising focuses on the sick children at our local hospital and we wish to maintain that support if possible during this pandemic. Consequently we have created a Just Giving page for donations.

“We recognise that for individuals and households these are anxious times and we want to say to you all that we recognise money will be short for some. So we are saying our page is for those that can. If you can afford to help and wish to then you help is really appreciated.”

To donate visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/hillbilliesmcceasterfundraising