PUPILS from the schools which will form the new Barony Campus stole the show at a showpiece event last week at the site.

They were representing the five schools being incorporated at the new campus ­— Cumnock and Auchinleck Academies, Greenmill and Barshare Primaries and Hillside School.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney laid the foundation stone for the campus building, watched by Provost Jim Todd and his deputy, Claire Leitch, as well as councillors for the area.

Also in attendance was Cumnock MP Bill Grant and senior officials including the council’s leader Douglas Reid and Chief Executive Fiona Lees.

Layla, Councillor Jim McMahon’s dog also joined the deputation at the ceremony and was on her best behaviour.

Mr Reid said: “Today’s event marks a significant milestone for the Barony Campus

“I’m delighted that John Swinney was able to join these young people and members of our community in celebrating this occasion.

“This campus will offer our young learners every opportunity to explore new horizons, learning in new and dynamic ways and to fire their imaginations, building on this fantastic legacy of achievement.”

At a formal reception at nearby Cumnock Rugby Club, guests were able to view the STEM centre of the new campus, through virtual reality equipment, with Richard Radigan of the council’s IT Education team.

Managing Director of Morrison Construction, Eddie Robertson, said the event was an important milestone.

He added: ‘‘The steel frame installation, underway since the start of September, is beginning to give shape to the facilities we will deliver.

“The car park is nearing completion and work on the 3G pitches is well underway.”