A MAUCHLINE firm with an international market have launched a major operation to remove a unique form of stone from the Ailsa Craig in order to continue to produce world class curling stones.

Kays of Scotland, based on Barskimming Road in the village have exclusive contracts to create competition class curling stones across the world, all made from granite which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

The distinctive blue hone granite is the only substance deemed suitable for the base of international class stones and can only be found on the Ailsa Craig.

For more, check out this week's Chronicle.