CUMNOCK Business Association have launched a new project ­— which goes back in time.

They are encouraging business owners to return to the routine of making sure their shop front and pavement is clean.

To help get the message across they have distributed brushes and shovels around the town centre.

Janice Hendry, the association’s secretary said: “It was always tradition that people would sweep the pavement in front of their shops.

“We have been working with Lawrie Dinwoodie at East Ayrshire Council and, working together in partnership, want to make the town welcoming to visitors and increase the footfall to our businesses.”

The association meets on a monthly basis and Janice says new members are welcome, whether their business is large or small.

She added: “We get together and discuss what is going on in the town and how we can attract more people.

“We work with the Cumnock Action Plan group as well as the hub at yipworld and meet at Dumfries Arms Hotel.

“Anyone who would like more information can e-mail me at jhendry@yipworld.org or call 01290 422364.”