AUCHINLECK Community Development Initiative have finally switched on the lights at The Whorrels.

The Mining Heritage Monument is situated on Mauchline Road and can be viewed in a different “light” as it is now attuned to lamp standard switch on.

Cllr Neil McGhee said: “We are very pleased with the outcome which will serve as a memorial to the industry for many years to come.” There is also a commemorative plaque with the inscription: “Dedicated to all Auchinleck miners and their families who served the industry and their community.” On the evening, invited speaker, NUM President, Nicky Wilson was sadly unable to attend due to union issues in Yorkshire. However, Scottish NUM vice President, Barney Menzies, kindly took the helm and spoke of the sentiment behind the project.

Around 30 people braved the weather to view the switch on and later Bobby McCallum provided some stirring lyrics from the mining days.

Former miner - and stawlwart campaigner for ex-miners rights - Alex Mills, his daughter, Sandra, and his grandson were also in attendance. Alex suffered a severe stroke some time ago, but that didn’t stop him re-living some of the old times and his part in the industry.